Critically Endangered Indian Vultures Released in Melghat Tiger Reserve

Melghat Vulture Reintroduction: Conservation Strategy, Challenges

In a major 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 is part of a long-term species recovery programme aimed at restoring vulture populations that have witnessed a dramatic decline across the subcontinent over the past three decades.

Translocation and Pre-Release Conditioning

The vultures were translocated from the Vulture Conservation Breeding Centre, Pinjore to Melghat in April last year. After relocation, the birds were housed in a specially constructed pre-release aviary. This acclimatisation phase allowed them to adjust to local climate, food sources and terrain—an essential step to improve survival prospects once released into open forest conditions.

Tracking, Soft Release and Monitoring

To ensure close monitoring, all 15 vultures were fitted with GSM and satellite transmitters in December 2025. The soft release process began on January 2, when aviary gates were opened remotely and food was placed outside to encourage gradual dispersal. Conservation scientists will track their movements, ranging behaviour and survival to assess how well the birds adapt to the Melghat landscape over time.

Conservation Challenges on the Ground

According to experts from the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) , the programme faced several challenges. These included limited natural food availability, the absence of an existing wild vulture population to guide the released birds, and the lingering risk posed by toxic veterinary drugs such as diclofenac. To mitigate these threats, feeding stations were established and safe cattle carcasses were sourced through partnerships with local gaushalas.

Hope for Vulture Revival

Forest officials and conservationists remain optimistic about Melghat’s potential as a vulture recovery site. Historically a stronghold of long-billed vultures, the reserve offers suitable habitat and protection. Scientists hope the released birds will eventually establish a breeding population, strengthening ecological services such as carcass disposal and disease regulation in central India.

Important Facts for Exams

• Indian vultures are critically endangered

• Diclofenac use in cattle caused major vulture declines

• Melghat Tiger Reserve is a key biodiversity area in central India

• BNHS is among India’s oldest wildlife research organisations