Endangered Indian Vultures Released in Melghat Tiger Reserve

In a significant boost to India’s wildlife conservation efforts, 15 critically endangered Indian vultures have been released into the wild at the Somthana Range of Melghat Tiger Reserve. The release forms part of a long-term species recovery programme led by conservation scientists to restore vulture populations that have sharply declined across the subcontinent.

Translocation and Pre-Release Conditioning

The vultures were translocated from the Vulture Conservation Breeding Centre at Pinjore to Melghat in April last year. Following their relocation, the birds were housed in a specially designed pre-release aviary to help them adapt to local climatic conditions, food availability, and terrain. This acclimatisation phase is considered crucial for improving survival chances once captive-bred vultures are released into the wild.

Tracking, Soft Release, and Monitoring

All 15 vultures were fitted with GSM and satellite tracking devices in December 2025 to allow continuous monitoring of their movement and survival. The soft release process began on January 2, with aviary gates opened remotely and food placed outside to encourage natural dispersal. Scientists will closely track the birds to assess their ranging patterns and long-term adaptation to the forest landscape.

Conservation Challenges on the Ground

According to conservation biologists from the Bombay Natural History Society, the programme faced multiple challenges. These included limited food availability, the absence of an existing vulture population to guide the released birds, and the lingering presence of harmful veterinary drugs in surrounding areas. These risks were mitigated by establishing feeding stations and sourcing safe cattle carcasses through partnerships with local gaushalas.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Indian vultures are classified as critically endangered.
• Diclofenac use in cattle caused major vulture population decline.
• Melghat is a key biodiversity landscape in central India.
• BNHS is one of India’s oldest wildlife research organisations.

Hope for Vulture Revival in Central India

Forest officials and conservationists involved in the release expressed optimism about Melghat’s suitability for vulture recovery. Historically a stronghold of long-billed vultures, the reserve offers favourable habitat conditions. Scientists hope the released birds will re-establish a breeding population, strengthening ecological processes such as carcass disposal and disease control in the region.