Indore (Madhya Pradesh): Only 18 vultures were recorded in the latest summer census conducted in the Indore forest division on Tuesday, showing a staggering 75% decline from the 73 vultures sighted just two months earlier during the winter census. The drop amounts to a loss of 55 vultures in less than 60 days, raising urgent concerns among forest officials and conservationists about the survival of the species in the region.
The one-day survey, carried out between 6 AM and 8 AM, spanned over 100 locations across four forest divisions within the Indore circle. Despite this extensive effort, the numbers were bleak. Indore range recorded six vultures—five adults and one juvenile—with no nests found. All birds were seen resting on open ground, indicating potential habitat stress. Choral reported six adult vultures and one nest on a rock. Manpur recorded four adults and four rocky nests, while Mhow saw just two vultures and one nest. Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary, once a known habitat for vultures, reported no sightings at all.
All vultures observed belonged to the Egyptian vulture species. The white-backed vulture, previously present in the area, was entirely absent. Of the six nests recorded in total, none were found on trees, all being located on rocky surfaces—highlighting a shift in nesting behaviour likely driven by environmental pressures.
“The low turnout is worrying,” said SDO K.K. Ninama. “We saw only 17 adult vultures and one juvenile. This is a significant drop compared to the winter survey, which is conducted over three days.”
The forest department, which documented the census through photographs and videos, has submitted the data for further analysis. Officials are now working to determine the underlying causes of the dramatic population drop, including habitat loss, poisoning, reduced food availability and climate-related stress.
“Vultures play a vital role in our ecosystem, acting as nature’s clean-up crew,” Ninama added. “Their decline isn’t just about one species—it signals a deeper imbalance in our environment.”
With nesting activity minimal and population figures plummeting, officials warn that the region’s vulture population could be heading toward collapse if immediate conservation actions are not taken.
