Maharashtra’s vulture conservation programme has recorded a notable success with the sighting of a Himalayan Griffon Vulture in Melghat, Amravati district. The species, usually associated with high-altitude regions, was seen in the area after the release of captive-bred vultures. This is because vultures had become locally extinct from Melghat and Tadoba nearly a decade ago. Soon after, an Eurasian Griffon Vulture was also spotted in Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve in Chandrapur district.
Decline of Vultures in Maharashtra
By 2004, vulture numbers in Maharashtra had fallen sharply. The decline was linked to the use of certain non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, especially diclofenac, aceclofenac, ketoprofen and nimesulide. These drugs caused severe mortality in scavenging birds feeding on treated carcasses. The collapse of vulture populations affected ecological balance, as vultures play a key role in carcass disposal and disease control.
Conservation Efforts by MFD and BNHS
To revive the species, the Maharashtra Forest Department and the Bombay Natural History Society launched a coordinated conservation effort. As part of this programme, 15 critically endangered Long-billed Vultures were shifted from the Vulture Conservation Breeding Centre at Pinjore to the Somthana range in Melghat Tiger Reserve on 23 April. The birds were first kept in an aviary for acclimatisation before release.
Release, Tracking and Ecological Response
On 19 December 2025, the vultures were fitted with GSM and satellite transmitters to monitor movement, behaviour and survival. They were released from the aviary on 2 January 2026. BNHS began feeding them naturally outside the aviary. Their continued presence, movement across Melghat Tiger Reserve and interaction with wild Himalayan Griffons indicate improved ecological acceptance. Conservation experts described the mixing of wild and released vultures as a positive sign for the restoration of the habitat.
Current Status of Vulture Recovery
BNHS currently cares for around 700 vultures through breeding centres and release sites. In 2025-26, 34 vultures have been soft-released in Melghat, Pench and Tadoba Tiger Reserves in Maharashtra. The recent sightings mark an important milestone in efforts to restore vulture populations in the state.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026