Sideways News

Birds of prey are usually considered a robust species. However, following a decline in vulture populations, Spanish researchers want to see a regulation reversal to allow vultures to feed on the carcasses of dead animals.

Historically, dead animals were left out for vultures to gorge on, providing a neat disposal service. However, since the spread of Mad Cow Disease (CJD), an EU ban prevented such disposal. The result of which, the researchers say, is a rapid decline in vultures, along with decreased breeding success and a higher mortality rate in younger birds.

Authorities have introduced feeding centres for vultures but farmers claim this measure does not go far enough. They report that birds such as the Bearded Vulture (Europe’s largest bird of prey, with a wing span of 3m) often swoop down to carry off new-born farm animals.