Great Smoky Mountains National Park is asking for the public’s help after 33 dead black vultures were found dumped along Foothills Parkway West. According to a National Park Service press release, park rangers reported a large number of dead birds along the roadside at approximately noon on April 6. Wildlife rangers later identified the birds as black vultures.
Black Vultures Are Federally Protected
Black vultures are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. That federal law makes it illegal to harm, kill, capture, sell, trade, or transport protected migratory birds without a permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Dumping anything inside a national park is also illegal.
Park officials did not say how the birds died or why the press release was issued several weeks after the April 6 discovery. The National Park Service said information from park visitors is often helpful to investigators, particularly when it includes photos or dashcam footage from the area.
How to Submit a Tip
Investigators are asking anyone who was in the area of Foothills Parkway between Chilhowee and Walland on April 6 to come forward, especially visitors who may have dash camera video, photos, or other information that could help identify who was responsible.
Information can be submitted anonymously at nps.gov/ISB or by calling or texting the NPS Investigative Services Branch tip line at 888-653-0009. Tips can also be emailed to nps_isb@nps.gov.
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