TN, Kerala and Karnataka to carry out first synchronised vulture survey

Subject : Environment

Section: Species in News

Concept :

The Forest and Wildlife Departments of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka are preparing to organise the first synchronised vulture survey in various regions of the Western Ghats.
Every year the Forest Departments of the three States organise separate surveys but in a tripartite coordination meeting held in Mudumalai Tiger reserve, the departments have decided to organise the first synchronised vulture survey in the Western Ghats to avoid duplications.
The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, contiguous to the Nagarhole and Bandipur Tiger reserves of Karnataka and Mudumalai tiger reserve of Tamil Nadu, is the only region where vultures thrive in Kerala.
The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary houses close to 120-150 white-rumped vultures and about 25 red-headed vultures with the occasional sightings of long-billed vultures also being reported.
Vultures are witnessing a catastrophic decline during the 2000s as these species are being exposed to diclofenac drug which is mainly used as a painkiller for cattle.

Indian Vulture (Gyps indicus)

Critically Endangered [IUCN]
Long-billed Vulture, The Indian Vulture, which is closely related to the European Griffon, is typically found in woods, grasslands, and shrub lands.
It is seen close to human-occupied regions like cities, towns, and agricultural areas, just like many other vulture species. This vulture can be found all over the Indian subcontinent and its neighboring nations, as its name suggests.

Red-headed Vulture (Sarcogyps calvus)

Critically Endangered [IUCN]
Other names: Pondicherry Vulture, Indian Black Vulture, Asian King Vulture
Red-headed Vultures are found all over India, though in small numbers with the exception of the western Himalayas. These vultures favor vast spaces, semi-deserts, and scrublands that are far from populated areas.
They are distinct, medium-sized raptors with dark plumage, red legs, and red necks.
They typically appear alone or in pairs rather than in vast groups, in contrast to many other vultures. They construct nests in large trees.

White-Rumped Vulture (Gyps bengalensis)

Critically Endangered [IUCN]
Known as: Indian White-backed Vulture, White-backed Vultures.
White-rumped Vultures, a medium-sized vulture, are frequently spotted close to areas where people are present. They have black and brown plumage with white neck ruffs.
They frequently appear in groups with different vulture species. White-rumped Vultures consume carrion, like the majority of vultures.
However, they have also been seen eating trash and abattoir waste as they dwell close to populated areas. They erect nests atop cliffs and trees.