Park rangers are seeking tips from the public after dozens of dead birds were found dumped along a scenic drive in the popular national park.
GATLINBURG, Tenn. — Thirty-three dead black vultures were found dumped along the side of a road inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park last month, triggering a federal investigation and a public appeal for witnesses and tips.
Rangers discovered the birds around noon on April 6 along Foothills Parkway West, between Chilhowee and Walland. The scenic drive is popular among visitors to the park.
Black vultures are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, a federal law that makes it a crime to harm, kill or possess them without a permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Dumping any material inside a national park is also prohibited under federal law. Violations of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act can carry fines of up to $15,000 and up to six months in prison.
It remains unclear how the vultures were killed or where they came from.
The National Park Service is now asking anyone who traveled the Foothills Parkway West corridor on April 6 to share information if they noticed unusual activity along the roadway that day.
Tipsters may remain anonymous, though officials noted that sharing contact information could aid the investigation.
Black vultures are a vital part of the ecosystem. As scavengers, they help prevent the spread of disease by consuming carcasses before bacteria and other pathogens can spread.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which spans the Tennessee–North Carolina border and draws more than 12 million visitors annually, is by far the most popular national park and one of the most biodiverse protected areas in North America.
Park officials urged anyone with information to contact investigators by email through their contact form.