EnvironmentSource: Indian Express
Recent Deaths of Himalayan Griffon Vultures in Dudhwa Tiger Reserve
Thursday, 9 April 2026
Read Original ArticleKey Points
In a concerning development, 25 Himalayan Griffon vultures have died in the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve due to suspected secondary poisoning. This incident underscores the threats faced by this species, which is critical for UPSC aspirants studying GS Paper 3 on environmental conservation. Last Updated: 09-04-2026
Key Facts About Himalayan Griffon Vultures
- The Himalayan Griffon vulture (Gyps himalayensis) is an Old World vulture, second in size only to the cinereous vulture.
- They belong to the family Accipitridae, which includes eagles, hawks, and harriers.
- They have a wingspan ranging from 2.5 to 3 meters and weigh between 8 and 12 kg.
- Found at altitudes of 1,200 to 5,500 meters, their range includes India, Nepal, Bhutan, and parts of Central Asia.
- They are carrion eaters, feeding on the carcasses of dead animals.
- Listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN and under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
Conservation Challenges and Ecological Importance
The Himalayan Griffon vultures play a crucial role in the ecosystem by disposing of carcasses and preventing the spread of diseases. However, they face significant threats from poisoning due to veterinary drugs like diclofenac, habitat disturbance, and changes in food availability. Their decline could disrupt ecological balance, impacting India's biodiversity and conservation goals.
UPSC Relevance
- GS Paper 3: Environmental conservation, biodiversity, and wildlife protection.
- Prelims: Questions on the physical characteristics, habitat, and conservation status of the Himalayan Griffon.
- Mains: Analytical themes on the impact of species decline on ecosystems and conservation strategies.
- Essay Paper: Topics on biodiversity conservation and environmental ethics.
FAQ Section
- What is the Himalayan Griffon vulture? The Himalayan Griffon vulture is a large Old World vulture found in parts of Asia, known for its significant role in the ecosystem as a scavenger.
- Why is the Himalayan Griffon vulture important? It helps in disposing of animal carcasses, thus preventing the spread of diseases and maintaining ecological balance.
- What are the key features of the Himalayan Griffon vulture? They have a wingspan of 2.5 to 3 meters, weigh between 8 and 12 kg, and are found at altitudes of 1,200 to 5,500 meters.
Detailed Coverage
- Incident: 25 Himalayan Griffon vultures died in Dudhwa Tiger Reserve.
- Cause: Suspected secondary poisoning from pesticide-laced carcasses.
- Location: Dudhwa Tiger Reserve in Uttar Pradesh.
- Composition: Includes Dudhwa National Park, Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary, and Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Species: Himalayan Griffon vulture (Gyps himalayensis).
- Size: Second largest Old World vulture.
- Physical Traits: Pale khaki body with dark flight feathers and a ruff of long brown feathers.
- Wingspan: Ranges from 2.5 to 3 meters.
- Weight: Adult weighs between 8 and 12 kg.
- Habitat: Found at altitudes of 1,200 to 5,500 meters.
- Range: India, Nepal, Bhutan, China, and Central Asia.
- Diet: Carrion eater, feeds on carcasses of dead animals.
- Social Behavior: Often seen in large groups around carcasses.
- Threats: Poisoning from veterinary drugs and habitat disturbance.
- Conservation Status: Near Threatened, protected under Indian law and CITES.
Environment