I've heard that they, the black vultures, will kill. I've never seen proof of it but I would be wary of them. I like the turkey vultures and enjoy watching their antics.
These were definitely diving to kill. It was wild! Even me shouting and waving a rake at them barely deterred them. I would have taken a video but I was a little preoccupied acting like a crazy person.
Sadly, I don't think most vultures are afraid of people. They will barely get out of the way of a car.
I'm used to seeing snakes, squirrels and foxes cross the roads but never a pair of chooks!
I'd make a 'why did the chicken cross the road' joke but I suppose that would be inappropriate since you're worried about predators.Thanks for the heads up on the black vultures. We have both varieties here; they often land on top of the utility poles at the barn and preen or wait until some thermals come along. My experienced girls can tell the difference between vultures and hawks, but the closeness of the vultures makes them nervous, so I usually just shoo them away.
On another note: on the way back from town yesterday, driving one of our county backroads, I suddenly saw a rooster (looked like a Welsummer) and his hen casually crossing the road. Slowed down and both wandered into the brush. Moved on and saw them again in my rearview mirror, just scratch and peck on the road. I'm afraid they'll likely be hit by car.
