The National Park Service is currently investigating the discovery of 33 dead black vultures that were found dumped along the Foothills Parkway. Reported by Great Smoky Mountains National Park rangers on April 6, the incident has sparked a federal inquiry because black vultures are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

This law makes it illegal to harm or kill the birds without a specific permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the act of dumping remains within a national park is also a criminal offense. Officials are now appealing to the public for help, requesting that anyone with information, photos, or dash camera footage from the area submit a tip to assist with the investigation.