Threatened Vultures of India: Population, Ecology, and Conservation

The objective of this review is to assess the population status, ecology, and conservation efforts for threatened, that includes critically endangered, endangered and vulnerable vulture species in India. Vultures are integral to ecosystem health, functioning as natural scavengers by consuming carcasses and preventing the spread of infectious diseases to humans and other animals. India is home to nine vulture species, of which four are critically endangered, one is endangered, three are near-threatened, and one is of least concern according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The vulture population in India has suffered a significant decline since the 1990s, largely due to the use of diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to treat livestock. Vultures ingest the drug by consuming carcasses of treated animals, leading to fatal kidney failure. Besides diclofenac poisoning, other threats to vulture populations include habitat degradation, reduced food supply, environmental toxins, human disturbances, and diseases. Vultures prefer undisturbed, remote locations for nesting, but human and animal interference is increasingly jeopardizing these sites and their breeding success. The review emphasizes the importance of various conservation strategies to mitigate vulture population decline. These include banning harmful veterinary drugs like diclofenac, establishing open captive breeding programs, and reducing human encroachment on vulture habitats. The review also highlights the need for creating vulture-safe zones, increasing food availability, and promoting public awareness. Protecting vulnerable vulture species is essential not only for preserving biodiversity but also for maintaining the health of ecosystems, as vultures play a vital role in the ecological balance.