STURGIS, S.D. – Sturgis Police are using non-lethal methods to encourage a group of turkey vultures to leave the Pine Street area.
Police Chief Geody Vandewater says officers will be using bird-banger noisemakers over the next several days in an effort to push the birds toward the surrounding hills, where they can roost without causing problems for residents.
Officials say the vultures have been creating unpleasant odors and property concerns, with droppings becoming a nuisance for homeowners in the area.
Vandewater says similar hazing efforts have been used successfully in the past, and the department is working with South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks to address the issue.
Residents near Pine Street may hear loud bangs during the wildlife management effort, but police say there is no cause for alarm, as the noises are part of the temporary operation to relocate the birds.
