Home / Environment / Vultures Collapse: Poisoned Rice Suspected in Dudhwa Tragedy
Vultures Collapse: Poisoned Rice Suspected in Dudhwa Tragedy
8 Apr
Summary
- Twenty-five vultures died in Dudhwa Tiger Reserve buffer zone.
- Secondary poisoning from pesticide-laced rice is the suspected cause.
- An awareness drive will educate villagers against harmful chemical use.
In a rare and tragic event, 25 Himalayan Griffon vultures were found dead on the edge of Dudhwa Tiger Reserve in Semariya village. The birds, listed as 'Near Threatened' by the IUCN, were observed circling a field before suddenly collapsing.
Preliminary investigations by forest officials indicate secondary poisoning as the likely cause. The suspicion is that the vultures fed on the carcasses of stray dogs that had consumed rice poisoned with pesticides or artificial chemicals. Six vultures were rescued in an unconscious state and are receiving treatment.
Forest authorities have formed a panel to conduct post-mortem examinations and will send viscera samples for detailed analysis to determine the exact cause of death. An awareness campaign is planned to educate villagers about the dangers of using harmful chemicals and to prevent future incidents.
The incident occurred in the Padiya section of the Bhira range, within the reserve's buffer zone. While Himalayan Griffon vultures are not classified as endangered, their sudden mass death has raised significant concern.
