Wayanad Vulture Survey Records 65 Birds

A two-day synchronous vulture survey was conducted in Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala on 26 and 27 September 2026. The survey recorded 65 vultures, including 54 white-rumped vultures and 11 red-headed vultures.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area in Kerala and forms part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. It is known as a habitat for scavenging birds, including critically endangered vulture species.

Vulture Species Recorded

White-rumped vulture and red-headed vulture are among the vulture species found in India. White-rumped vulture is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List, and red-headed vulture is also listed as Critically Endangered.

Survey Method and Participants

The survey was jointly organised by the Kerala Forest Department, Wayanad Wildlife Division, WWF-India, and the Hume Centre for Ecology and Wildlife Biology. Forty-two birdwatchers, researchers, students, and wildlife enthusiasts participated in nine teams across seven vantage points.

Important Facts for Exams

• Vultures are scavenger birds that feed on carcasses and help in natural waste removal.
• India has nine vulture species, including the white-rumped vulture and the red-headed vulture.
• Diclofenac is a veterinary drug linked to major vulture population decline in South Asia.
• Poisoning and electrocution are among the threats faced by vultures in India.

Conservation Context

Regular monitoring of vulture populations is used to record distribution, movement patterns, and mortality risks. Protected areas in the Western Ghats, including Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, are important sites for vulture conservation in India.