The vulture census in Madhya Pradesh’s South Panna forest division and Shivpuri district revealed 1,127 and 735 vultures, respectively, indicating stable populations. Forest officials conducted the census, documenting vultures in various forest ranges and habitats known for nesting. In Shivpuri district, 735 vultures were recorded across different forest areas, reflecting stable population trends and safe habitats, including the Madhav National Park.
Madhya Pradesh is a significant area for vulture conservation, with various vulture species identified during the survey. These species, including resident and migratory ones, inhabit cliffs, forests, and open landscapes in the region. The state’s vulture population has been on the rise, with recent data showing an increase from 7,000 in 2016 to 12,981 in the first phase of the 2025 census.
Conservation efforts such as the ban on diclofenac, habitat protection, breeding centers, and community involvement have contributed to this population growth. The census aims to track vulture populations, which had declined due to poisoning by veterinary drugs and other environmental threats. The findings from this census will guide future conservation planning and protection measures.
