In a significant step for wildlife conservation, a recent vulture survey conducted at the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary recorded 80 vultures. This emphasizes the sanctuary’s role as a critical habitat for these endangered birds.
Survey Details
The vulture survey was organized by the Kerala Forest Department, in collaboration with conservation groups and wildlife experts. The primary objective was to assess the population and health of vultures within the region.
Vulture Species Observed
The survey recorded two critically endangered species, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN):
- White-rumped Vulture
- Red-headed Vulture
Role of Vultures in the Ecosystem
Vultures are essential to maintaining the balance of ecosystems by scavenging carcasses. This process helps prevent the spread of diseases, making vultures a vital part of environmental health.
Positive Findings and Future Conservation Needs
The experts expressed optimism regarding the stable vulture population at the sanctuary. However, they also highlighted the need for continued conservation efforts, which include:
- Habitat protection
- Monitoring vulture movements
- Minimizing the use of harmful chemicals, especially diclofenac, which has been a significant factor in vulture population decline across India.
Importance of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary
Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is known as a key habitat for various wildlife species. The discovery of a stable vulture population further increases its ecological significance. The findings from the survey will inform future strategies to protect these critical birds.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
1. What was the main purpose of the vulture survey conducted at Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary?
A) To capture and relocate vultures
B) To assess the population and health of vultures
C) To tag and monitor other wildlife species
D) To study the migration patterns of vultures
Answer: B) To assess the population and health of vultures
2. Which of the following vulture species were recorded during the survey at Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary?
A) Griffon Vulture and Egyptian Vulture
B) White-rumped Vulture and Red-headed Vulture
C) Himalayan Vulture and Indian Vulture
D) Slender-billed Vulture and Bearded Vulture
Answer: B) White-rumped Vulture and Red-headed Vulture
3. What role do vultures play in the ecosystem?
A) Pollinating plants
B) Preying on small animals
C) Scavenging carcasses and preventing the spread of diseases
D) Digging burrows for other animals
Answer: C) Scavenging carcasses and preventing the spread of diseases
4. What is a major threat to vulture populations in India?
A) Poaching for feathers
B) Habitat destruction
C) The use of harmful chemicals like diclofenac
D) Competition with other bird species
Answer: C) The use of harmful chemicals like diclofenac
5. Why is the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary ecologically significant?
A) It is a habitat for endangered vultures and other wildlife species
B) It is located near a major urban area
C) It is the largest wildlife sanctuary in India
D) It is home to several species of aquatic life
Answer: A) It is a habitat for endangered vultures and other wildlife species