An emerging crisis for Indian vultures

Featured image: Two critically endangered long-billed vulture

The long-billed vulture (Gyps indicus), commonly known as the Indian vulture, once soared across India’s skies in vast numbers. Over the past few decades, however, their population has plummeted by a staggering 97%, pushing the species to the brink of extinction. While the devastating impact of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as diclofenac on vultures is well-documented, our recent findings reveal another emerging threat — toxic effluents from the paper industry. These pollutants, often overlooked in conservation discussions, may further endanger already vulnerable vulture populations.

Our study, recently featured in Current Conservation, highlights how industrial waste and poor effluent management can severely disrupt vulture food chains and breeding success. You can read the full article here: 

Read it here