Vulture Population Soars in Madhya Pradesh, Tops National Chart

Madhya Pradesh : Madhya Pradesh has emerged as the state with the highest number of vultures in India. According to the latest state-level vulture census conducted by the Forest Department, the population of vultures in the state has risen to 12,981. This marks a significant increase compared to previous years, reflecting successful conservation efforts and favorable habitats within the state.

Correspondent reported that the census was carried out across 16 circles, 64 divisions, and nine protected areas under the Forest Department. The steady rise in the vulture population highlights the state’s commitment to wildlife conservation. In the 2019 census, the vulture population stood at 8,397, which further increased to 10,845 by 2024. The current count of 12,981 vultures demonstrates an encouraging upward trend, signaling the effectiveness of ongoing conservation programs and habitat protection measures.

The vulture census in Madhya Pradesh began in 2016 and has been conducted periodically to monitor population trends. The state is home to seven species of vultures, of which four are native and three are migratory. The native species include the Long-billed Vulture (Gyps indicus), White-rumped Vulture (Gyps bengalensis), Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus), and Red-headed Vulture (Sarcogyps calvus). The migratory species, which visit the state during specific seasons, add to the overall biodiversity and play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance.

The winter season is considered ideal for conducting vulture censuses, as both resident and migratory vultures can be observed and counted during this period. Factors contributing to the growth in vulture numbers include improved habitat management, availability of food, and reduced use of harmful veterinary drugs like diclofenac, which was previously responsible for a sharp decline in vulture populations across India. Diclofenac, an anti-inflammatory drug used in livestock, proved toxic to vultures when they fed on animal carcasses, leading to a drastic population decline in the early 2000s. The ban on veterinary diclofenac, along with awareness campaigns and conservation initiatives, has significantly contributed to the recovery of vulture populations.

Madhya Pradesh’s success in vulture conservation serves as a model for other states, demonstrating the importance of sustained conservation efforts.