A report in the Journal of Threatened Taxa has been published that the Himalayan vulture Gyps himalayansis has been successfully reproduced in 2022 at the Guwahati Zoo in the state of Assam.
Himalayan Vulture
Conservation Status
- International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List: Near Threatened.
- CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora): Appendix II.
Distinctive Characteristics
- The Himalayan vulture is one of the largest Old World vulture species, boasting an impressive wingspan and formidable presence.
- Its plumage is dominated by shades of black and brown, which aid in its camouflage against the rugged mountain terrain.
- The vulture’s powerful hooked beak and keen eyesight make it a proficient scavenger, playing a crucial role in the ecosystem by cleaning up carrion.
Habitat and Range
- The Himalayan vulture is aptly named, as it primarily inhabits the towering peaks and valleys of the Himalayan mountain range.
- It is a common winter migrant to the Indian plains.
- Its range extends across several countries, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, and China, where it thrives in challenging high-altitude environments.
Ecological Significance
- As a top predator and scavenger, the Himalayan vulture plays a vital role in maintaining the health of its habitat by efficiently disposing of animal remains.
- Its scavenging behavior helps prevent the spread of diseases that could arise from decaying carcasses, thus contributing to the overall balance of the ecosystem.
Challenges and Conservation Efforts
- Breeding the Himalayan vulture in captivity posed challenges due to its natural breeding habits in snow-clad mountains.
- Successful breeding at the zoo was made possible through long-term captivity and acclimatization to the tropical environment.
- Factors such as habitat loss, food scarcity, and accidental poisoning from veterinary drugs have contributed to its vulnerable status.
- Conservation breeding centers, such as the Vulture Conservation Breeding Centre (VCBC) at Rani, Assam, are instrumental in safeguarding vulture species.
Vultures in India