Abstract
An exhausted Indian White-backed Vulture Gyps bengalensis was rescued in Maharashtra State, India. Examination revealed that it was not injured but was emaciated due to starvation. The vulture was fed in captivity by the Forest Department. To rule out the possibility of viral infections, cloacal, tracheal and serum samples were collected from the vulture. They were negative for Avian Influenza (AI) viruses, Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV), Infectious Bursal Disease Virus by virus isolation. We observed neck drooping behavior by vulture when approached by humans. The vulture flew away but after two days, was found dead 60km away, due to electrocution. Our report suggests that electrocution may also be an explanation for the decreasing numbers of vultures in India.
Highlights
Avian influenza (AI) surveillance in wild migratory, wild resident, domestic birds and poultry was undertaken by the National Institute of Virology (NIV) jointly with the Ela Foundation, Pune, India from 2006 to 2008 and various bird samples were screened for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 and other AI viruses (Pawar et al 2009)
To rule out the possibility of infection with AI viruses and other viral infections, cloacal, tracheal and serum samples were collected from the vulture
Cloacal and tracheal samples of the vulture were negative for AI viruses, Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV), Infectious Bursal Disease Virus by virus isolation
Summary
Affected birds exhibit signs of illness (neck drooping syndrome) for approximately 30 days prior to death (Cunningham et al 2003; Watson et al 2008). With the permission of the forest department, samples for laboratory tests including haematology and virological studies were collected. The samples collected were blood, serum, cloacal and tracheal swabs.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
