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: Minister for Forests K. Ponmudy on Friday (April 4, 2025) released the Synchronised Vulture Survey 2025 in Tamil Nadu, which revealed a steady rise in vulture numbers. The survey was organised in the States of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, in coordination with the Kerala and Karnataka forest departments, according to an official release.
The Survey covered Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve, and Nellai Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu; Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala; and Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple Tiger Reserve and Nagarhole Tiger Reserve in Karnataka, it said. A total of 157 vultures were recorded in Tamil Nadu, showing an increase in vulture population in the State. The white-rumped vulture is the most abundant species, accounting for 110 individuals, followed closely by the long-billed vulture (31 individuals), the red-headed vulture (11), and Egyptian vulture (5), the survey said.
According to the survey, Mudumalai Tiger Reserve is home to a significant breeding population of vultures. There are 60 active nests, which hosts an estimated population of 120 vultures. This population mainly comprises white-rumped vultures (108), followed by long-billed vultures (10), and red-headed vultures (2).
Notably, 34 chicks were also recorded, indicating a thriving breeding ground, the survey said. The red-headed vulture nest was recorded for the first time in southern India at Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, it further said. The census report was released in the presence of Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary, Environment, Climate Change and Forests Department; Srinivas R.
Reddy Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (HoFF); Rakesh Kumar Dogra, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden; and members of Tamil Nadu State-Level Committee for Vulture Conservation committee. Published - April 05, 2025 12:02 am IST Copy link Email Facebook Twitter Telegram LinkedIn WhatsApp Reddit flora and fauna / Tamil Nadu.
