However, vulture populations in India have faced a dramatic decline due to several threats, including the ingestion of toxic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like diclofenac, commonly used to treat livestock, as well as habitat loss, electrocution, food scarcity, and human disturbances. The alarming drop in vulture numbers has led to some species being classified as Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Vulture Count 2024 aims to address this crisis by systematically monitoring vulture populations. Gathering comprehensive baseline data will help track population trends, identify critical habitats, and assess the impact of environmental changes. This information will be vital for developing targeted conservation strategies and policies, and for raising public awareness and support for vulture conservation.

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How are rising Ganesh idol prices affecting the traditional celebrations for Ganesh Chaturthi in Mumbai?

Higher costs for devotees 40.78%

Impact on mandal activities 28.25%

Shift to alternative celebrations 30.97%

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“Vultures are nature’s scavengers. Their role in the ecosystem is paramount. Vulture Count 2024 represents a significant opportunity for citizen scientists, bird enthusiasts, and local communities to contribute to vulture conservation and to increase awareness about them,” said Dr Dipankar Ghose, Senior Director - Biodiversity Conservation, WWF-India. “With the support of dedicated volunteers, we aim to gather crucial data that will guide our efforts in conserving these threatened birds.”

Building on the success of counts done in previous years, which saw over 500 volunteers and more than 500 checklists submitted through the eBird application, this year’s Vulture Count invites local birding organisations, ornithologists, photographers, and naturalists from across India to participate.

The count will focus on key vulture species, including the white-rumped vulture, red-headed vulture, Indian vulture, bearded vulture, slender-billed vulture, Himalayan griffon, Eurasian griffon, Egyptian vulture, and cinereous vulture. To help the public participate effectively in the count, WWF-India will host a virtual orientation session conducted by expert birder Nirav Bhatt on September 6. This session will provide volunteers with essential training and information on identifying vultures in their respective areas.