Dozens of Dead Vultures Dumped in National Park, Investigation Underway
Park officials say the birds were illegally dumped and ask witnesses with dashcam video or photos to help identify a suspect.
- On April 6, 2026, Great Smoky Mountains National Park rangers discovered 33 dead black vultures dumped along Foothills Parkway West around noon, prompting an investigation into the illegal disposal.
- Black vultures are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, making it illegal to harm or kill them without a permit; dumping any material in the park is also prohibited.
- Investigators urge anyone who traveled the Foothills Parkway between Chilhowee and Walland on April 6 to contact the National Park Service with dashcam video, photos, or other information.
- Tipsters can choose to keep their identity private while providing information, and the National Park Service emphasizes that visitor details are valuable to investigators.
- The National Park Service is actively seeking tips to identify the suspect responsible for the illegal dumping of the 33 dead black vultures discovered last month.
20 Articles
20 Articles
33 vultures found dumped in Great Smoky Mountains
GATLINBURG, TN (WSPA) -- Great Smoky Mountains National Park is investigating the dumping of 33 dead black vultures on Foothills Parkway West. The discovery was reported by park rangers on April 6, around noon. The incident occurred between Chilhowee and Walland along the western portion of the scenic roadway. Park rangers initially reported a large [...]
National Park Service seeks public's help after 33 black vultures found dead in Smokies
The National Park Service is asking for the public’s help after 33 black vultures were found dead in Great Smoky Mountains National Park last month.
Dozens of black vultures killed and dumped in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
A grisly investigation is underway in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, after nearly three dozen federally protected birds were killed and “dumped” along a scenic parkway, according to the National Park Service.
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