Vulture Count Initiative: WWF-India's Vulture Conservation

The "Vulture Count 2024" Initiative:

• • WWF-India has launched the "Vulture Count 2024" initiative, a month-long nationwide vulture census starting from September 7, 2024.
  • The census will be conducted in collaboration with Bird Count India and eBird, focusing on monitoring and conserving vulture populations.
  • The census will take place at Asola Wildlife Sanctuary and the Ghazipur landfill site in Delhi, as well as in other key locations across the country.
  • The timing of the census coincides with International Vulture Awareness Day, celebrated on the first Saturday of September.

Goals and Objectives of the Vulture Count:

• • The primary goals of the "Vulture Count 2024" initiative are to:
    • Monitor vulture populations and track population trends over time.
    • Identify critical habitats that are essential for vulture survival.
    • Assess the impact of environmental changes on vulture populations.
  • The data collected during the census will be vital for developing targeted conservation strategies and policies to protect these endangered bird species.

Importance of Vultures in the Ecosystem:

• • Vultures play a crucial role as nature's "cleanup crew," feeding on carrion and preventing the spread of diseases among wildlife, livestock, and humans.
  • By consuming decomposing animal carcasses, vultures help in nutrient cycling and maintain the ecological balance.
  • Their presence is essential for the health of ecosystems, yet their populations have faced a dramatic decline in India.

Threats to Vulture Populations:

• • Toxic chemicals, particularly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like diclofenac, have led to the death of many vultures.
  • Loss of habitat due to human development has reduced the natural areas where vultures can thrive.
  • Electrocution from power lines and a lack of food availability have also contributed to the declining vulture numbers.
  • Human disturbances, such as encroachment on vulture habitats, have further exacerbated the problem.

Community Involvement and Awareness:

• • World Wide Fund for Nature India (WWF-India) is encouraging citizen scientists, bird enthusiasts, and local communities to participate in the "Vulture Count 2024" initiative.
  • A virtual orientation session will be hosted on September 6, 2024, to provide volunteers with the necessary training and information on identifying vultures.
  • The initiative aims to raise public awareness about the importance of vultures and their dwindling populations in India.
  • By involving the local communities, WWF-India hopes to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility towards vulture conservation.