Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Vultures are scavenging birds of prey playing a crucial role as nature’s recyclers, preventing the spread of diseases by consuming carrion. However, populations of several vulture species in India and Southeast Asia have suffered catastrophic declines since the 1990s, pushing some species to the brink of extinction. This decline is a significant ecological concern, impacting ecosystem health and potentially leading to public health risks. The crisis highlights the unintended consequences of human activities on wildlife and the importance of proactive conservation measures.
Causes of the Decline
The primary cause of the vulture decline is the ingestion of diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used in veterinary medicine to treat livestock. Vultures lack a gene that allows them to metabolize diclofenac, leading to kidney failure and visceral gout.
- Diclofenac Toxicity: Vultures consume the carcasses of livestock treated with diclofenac, accumulating the drug in their system.
- Habitat Loss: Deforestation and changes in agricultural practices have reduced the availability of foraging grounds and nesting sites.
- Poisoning: Intentional poisoning of vultures, often in retaliation for preying on livestock, also contributes to the decline.
- Other Factors: Lead poisoning from ammunition in carcasses and electrocution from power lines are also contributing factors, though less significant than diclofenac.
Ecological and Economic Impacts
The decline in vulture populations has had significant ecological and economic consequences:
- Increased Disease Risk: With fewer vultures to consume carcasses, the risk of disease outbreaks, such as rabies and anthrax, increases.
- Rise in Feral Dog Populations: The absence of vultures has led to a surge in feral dog populations, which compete with vultures for carrion and also pose a threat of rabies transmission.
- Economic Costs: Increased livestock mortality due to disease outbreaks and the cost of managing feral dog populations impose economic burdens.
- Impact on Ecosystem Services: Vultures provide essential ecosystem services by removing carcasses, preventing the spread of pathogens, and recycling nutrients. Their decline disrupts these services.
Conservation Efforts
Several conservation efforts have been implemented to address the vulture crisis:
- Banning Diclofenac: India, Nepal, and Bangladesh have banned the veterinary use of diclofenac.
- Safe Alternatives: Promoting the use of alternative NSAIDs like meloxicam, which are safe for vultures.
- Vulture Safe Zones: Establishing ‘Vulture Safe Zones’ where diclofenac use is strictly prohibited and vulture populations are monitored.
- Breeding Programs: Captive breeding programs have been established to increase vulture populations. The Pinjore Breeding Centre in Haryana is a key example.
- Conservation Awareness: Raising awareness among local communities about the importance of vulture conservation.
- Multi-Species Action Plan (MSAP): Developed by the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) to coordinate conservation efforts across range states.
| Vulture Species | IUCN Status (as of Nov 2023) |
|---|---|
| White-rumped Vulture | Critically Endangered |
| Slender-billed Vulture | Critically Endangered |
| Red-headed Vulture | Critically Endangered |
| Egyptian Vulture | Endangered |
Conclusion
The decline of vulture populations is a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the potential consequences of human actions. While the ban on diclofenac and conservation efforts have shown some positive results, continued vigilance and sustained commitment are crucial. Addressing the remaining challenges, such as ensuring complete elimination of diclofenac use and mitigating other threats like poisoning and habitat loss, is essential for securing the future of these vital scavengers and maintaining ecological balance.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.