In a heartening development for wildlife enthusiasts, Etawah Safari Park recently played host to a flock of twelve Himalayan Griffon Vultures, a rare sight in the region.
The Himalayan vulture, scientifically known as Gyps Himalayensis, is among the largest Old-World vultures and is classified as ‘near threatened’ on the IUCN Red List. Native to the Himalayas and the adjoining Tibetan Plateau, the appearance of these majestic birds has sparked curiosity and excitement among visitors and conservationists alike. The remarkable sighting occurred when an observant employee of the Safari Park captured photographs of the vulture flock perched on a tree on March 27th. The presence of these vultures, known as nature’s scavengers, underscores the park’s role as a sanctuary for diverse avian species. This sighting not only highlights the rich biodiversity of Etawah Safari Park but also underscores the importance of conservation efforts in preserving habitats for endangered species. As ecosystems face increasing threats from human activities and habitat loss, the presence of the Himalayan Griffon Vulture serves as a reminder of the delicate balance of nature and the need for proactive conservation measures.
The arrival of these rare vultures at Etawah Safari Park signifies a significant milestone in the park’s conservation journey. It offers a glimpse into the intricate web of life and the vital role that protected areas play in safeguarding biodiversity. Moreover, it provides an opportunity for visitors to witness firsthand the beauty and diversity of India’s natural heritage. As efforts continue to protect and preserve wildlife habitats, sightings such as these serve as a beacon of hope for the future of conservation. Etawah Safari Park’s encounter with the Himalayan Griffon Vulture flock serves as a testament to the importance of ecological stewardship and the collective responsibility to protect our planet’s precious biodiversity.
Dr Rajiv Chauhan, secretary general of Society for Conservation of Nature, said sighting of the almost extinct Himalayan griffon vultures is a first ever for Etawah Safari Park. “It’s a positive development that the almost extinct Himalayan griffon vulture is making its home in Etawah, which is connected to the Chambal. After a long gap, a flock of these vultures has been seen in Etawah Safari Park for two consecutive days. The sighting has become a matter of curiosity among people. The govt agencies should also explore how their large numbers appeared in the Safari Park area, and if there’s any such nesting site of the rare vulture species nearby,” he said.
