Madhya Pradesh Now Home to India’s Highest Vulture Population

Madhya Pradesh has emerged as the state with the highest vulture population in India, marking a major success in wildlife conservation. According to the first phase of the 2025 vulture census, the state’s vulture population has reached 12,981, a significant increase from 10,845 in 2024 and 8,397 in 2019. This steady rise highlights the effectiveness of conservation measures implemented over the years. The vulture census, which began in 2016, plays a crucial role in tracking population trends and ensuring the survival of these important scavengers.

How is Madhya Pradesh Conducting the Vulture Census?

The Madhya Pradesh Forest Department has been conducting systematic vulture censuses since 2016 to monitor the population closely. The 2025 census is divided into two phases, with the first conducted from February 17th to 19th and the second scheduled for April 29th. The survey covers 16 circles, 64 divisions, and 9 protected areas, including national parks, tiger reserves, and other wildlife sanctuaries across the state. These extensive efforts aim to provide an accurate count and help implement better conservation strategies.

What Are the Key Vulture Species Found in Madhya Pradesh?

Madhya Pradesh is home to seven out of the nine vulture species found in India. These include four resident species—the Indian Long-billed Vulture, White-rumped Vulture, Egyptian Vulture, and Red-headed Vulture—and three migratory species—the Himalayan Griffon, Eurasian Griffon, and Cinereous Vulture. The census is conducted during winter when both resident and migratory vultures are easier to count, ensuring more precise population estimates.

Why Did Vulture Populations Decline, and How Are They Recovering?

Vultures in India faced a severe population decline in the past due to the use of diclofenac, a veterinary drug that caused kidney failure in vultures feeding on treated livestock carcasses. In response, the Indian government banned the use of diclofenac for veterinary purposes in 2006. Since then, vulture conservation efforts, including habitat protection and awareness programs, have contributed to a gradual recovery of these birds. The steady increase in Madhya Pradesh’s vulture population is a direct result of these sustained conservation measures.

Vultures play a vital role in the ecosystem by cleaning up carcasses and preventing the spread of diseases. The growing numbers in Madhya Pradesh indicate a positive shift in conservation success, reinforcing the need for continued protection of these essential birds.

Madhya Pradesh: India’s Vulture Stronghold