Vultures may be harassed without federal permits, but they can only be killed after obtaining a Migratory Bird Depredation Permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Producers must document their attempts to deter damage through harassment as a prerequisite of the permitting process. The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and Animal Damage Control are able to provide assistance to producers applying for federal permits for vulture control. Although poultry are their more common domestic prey, foxes may prey on livestock. They typically limit their attacks to young or small animals, particularly lambs and kids.
Foxes usually attack the throat of their prey.
They generally prefer the viscera and begin feeding through an entry behind the ribs. In instances where livestock or fowl are being destroyed, foxes can be taken at any time by the owner or tenant of the property. Electronic calling devices may be used to hunt foxes. Return to Table of Contents Bears Black bears will attack adult cattle and horses but seem to prefer sheep, goats, and calves. They may break the neck or back of their prey with blows of the fore paws, but normally kill by biting the neck and shoulders.