To preserve the kingdom of the “King of Vultures,” plans are underway to promote conservation through artificial breeding.
The efforts for vulture conservation and protection are progressing, albeit slowly, but with a sense of success. Encouraged by this, the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) is now preparing to launch a campaign for the conservation of the red-headed vultures, often referred to as the “Asian king” of vultures, in collaboration with the government. Talks between BNHS and the Madhya Pradesh government are in the final stages. The proposal to establish a breeding center in Bhopal has already received approval.
To preserve the kingdom of the “King of Vultures,” plans are underway to promote conservation through artificial breeding. The efforts for vulture conservation and protection are progressing, albeit slowly, but with a sense of success. Encouraged by this, the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) is now preparing to launch a campaign for the conservation of…
Artificially Bred Vultures Released
Rithe further stated that so far, 84 vultures have been released into their natural habitats after being bred at four artificial breeding centers across the country. On December 17, 25 vultures were released from the Jatayu Conservation Breeding Center in Pinjore, Haryana, into their natural habitat.
These vultures are tracked using satellite transmitters. After being released, several of them traveled up to 2,000 kilometers. However, vultures born in artificial environments face numerous challenges, and currently, only about 50% of them survive. Vultures bred in breeding centers have also been released in Maharashtra, with 20 of them being set free.
Decline of Red-Headed Vultures in India
Red-headed vultures were once seen throughout the Indian subcontinent, but now they are found only in a few regions of northern India. In 2007, the United Nations classified these vultures as critically endangered.
Preparation After Success with Other Vulture Species
After the success with other vulture species, BNHS has started preparing for the conservation of red-headed vultures.
Where Vultures Are Increasing
Rithe mentioned that in tiger reserves, where the populations of animals like chital and sambar are growing, the vulture population is also naturally increasing. Additionally, in states like Gujarat and Rajasthan, where cattle farming is on the rise, vultures are also growing in numbers. However, in states where animals are buried after death, the vulture population is negatively affected.
Awareness Campaigns
BNHS officials are meeting with state animal husbandry department officials to explain what steps should be taken to protect vultures. Additionally, local communities are being educated about how they can contribute to vulture conservation.
Furthermore, restrictions have been placed on drugs like diclofenac, which were responsible for the death of 99% of vultures.BNHS is also engaging in talks with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other related departments to ban other drugs that are harmful to vultures. It was these drugs that led to the near extinction of vultures, prompting the need for special conservation efforts.
