Major Synchronized Vulture Census Underway Across Three States
COIMBATORE: A comprehensive two-day synchronized vulture census has officially commenced across the expansive Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve, spanning the forested regions of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka. This critical initiative aims to meticulously assess the current population status and geographical distribution of endangered vulture species within the reserve's key landscapes.
Expansive Coverage and Methodology
According to official sources, this marks the fourth consecutive year of the synchronized census. The survey encompasses significant protected areas including the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve, and Tirunelveli Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu. In Karnataka, the census covers the Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Nagarhole Tiger Reserve, and Biligiri Ranganatha Temple Tiger Reserve. The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala is also included in this extensive effort.
More than 120 specialized teams are actively participating across the three states. Each team comprises at least four members, including a trained vulture expert, and is equipped with essential tools such as high-quality binoculars, cameras, and GPS units. This equipment ensures precise recording of coordinates for vantage points and nesting sites. "All teams are utilizing a standardized data sheet to guarantee uniform data collection methodologies across all diverse landscapes," confirmed an official source.
Cooperation and Historical Data
Rakesh Kumar Dogra, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & Chief Wildlife Warden for Tamil Nadu, highlighted the complete cooperation extended by the neighboring states for this synchronized endeavor. The previous census conducted in February 2025 across 106 vantage points documented a promising increase in the vulture population from 320 to 390 individuals. Tamil Nadu reported the highest count at 157 vultures, followed by Kerala with 125 and Karnataka with 106. For the current census, the number of vantage points has been strategically increased to 117.
R Vidyadhar, Deputy Director of the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, noted specific expansions in the survey area. "A new vantage point has been introduced in the Masinagudi division. Additionally, the Erode and Coimbatore forest divisions are included in the census for the first time this year," he stated.
Species Diversity and Population Trends
India is home to nine vulture species, with an impressive seven recorded within Tamil Nadu alone. These include resident species like the white-rumped vulture, long-billed vulture, and red-headed vulture, alongside migratory visitors such as the Egyptian vulture, Himalayan griffon, and Cinereous vulture.
The census data reveals a positive trajectory for vulture populations in the region. The inaugural synchronized census in 2023 recorded only 246 vultures. This number rose to 320 in the 2024 survey and further increased to 390 in 2025. Specifically in Tamil Nadu, the count surged from just 100 vultures in 2023 to 157 in 2025, indicating successful conservation efforts.
Conservation Measures and Habitat Management
Based on insights from previous surveys, significant improvements have been implemented in wild animal carcass management protocols, particularly within the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. R Vidyadhar explained the revised approach: "Typically, after a postmortem examination, an animal carcass is buried or incinerated. However, to ensure a reliable food source for vultures, carcasses are now left in open areas for scavenging, provided there is no suspicion of disease in the deceased animal." This strategic change directly supports vulture sustenance and population recovery.
The synchronized census represents a vital collaborative effort in wildlife conservation, providing essential data to guide future protection strategies for these critically endangered avian species across the Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve.
