10 Things in the Yard That’ll Attract Buzzards Fast
Buzzards show up for one reason: something nearby is dead, rotting, or giving off a strong scent. Once they find a regular source of food, they’ll stick around—and it’s hard to convince them to leave.
If they’re circling your property or landing in the trees too often, something’s drawing them in.
Animal Carcasses Left Too Long
This is the biggest one. Whether it’s a raccoon in the woods or a chicken you lost in the back pasture, buzzards catch that scent fast. Always bury or remove dead animals right away. Leaving them out—even for a few hours—can bring in a crowd.
Overfilled or Uncovered Dumpsters
Buzzards will go after food waste and meat scraps if your trash is overflowing or uncovered. They’ve got a strong nose and zero standards. If your dumpster sits near the barn or shop, keep it sealed tight and emptied regularly.
Rotting Feed or Spilled Grain
Spoiled feed, especially with meat scraps mixed in, gives off a strong smell. If you’re storing old feed outside or not cleaning up spills, you’re unintentionally feeding them. Make sure feed bins are dry, sealed, and nowhere near a spot where buzzards like to land.
Dead Trees or Snagged Limbs
They love to perch high where they can scan the area. Dead trees or broken limbs make the perfect lookout. If you’ve got trees near the house or barn that buzzards roost in, cut them back or remove them altogether. The less comfortable the landing, the better.
Unattended Compost Piles
If your compost pile includes bones, scraps, or meat of any kind, buzzards will come sniffing. Even veggie waste that’s breaking down can smell strong enough to pull them in. Stick to plant matter and keep your pile covered if it’s near livestock or your home.
Gut Piles from Hunting
If you butcher animals or hunt on your land, leaving gut piles out will bring buzzards in fast. Even if you’re out in the back acreage, they’ll find it. Bury or remove remains properly after processing. Don’t assume nature will handle it quietly.
Open Water with Dead Fish or Frogs
If you’ve got a pond or tank that’s gone stagnant, any dead fish or frogs floating on the surface will attract buzzards. Clean up the water source and check for signs of oxygen issues or algal blooms if it keeps happening.
Leftover Pet Food Outdoors
Dog or cat food left out overnight can lure in all kinds of critters. If something drags it off and dies nearby, buzzards will be next in line. Always bring bowls in after feeding, especially if you’re out in a rural area.
Unsecured Trash Bags After Butchering
If you’re processing meat and tossing scraps in regular trash bags, make sure they’re sealed and stored far from the house. Even a small leak in the bag can be enough to bring buzzards sniffing around by the next morning.
Dead Livestock Hidden in Brush
If a goat or calf dies and you don’t find it right away, buzzards usually will. They’ll circle, land, and start tearing into the carcass. If you see them gathering in one particular spot often, check that area thoroughly—you might have something down in the brush.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
