The Distribution, Nesting Habits and Status of Threatened Vulture Species in Protected Areas of Central India

Abstract

Protected Area (PA) establishment is one of the commoner strategies for wildlife conservation, but the effectiveness of these developments is rarely evaluated in terms of species’ performance. This article assesses the effectiveness of PAs of Central India, using an assessment of threatened vulture species. These species may be considered as keystone species in this region. Relevant parameters considered for assessment comprised: (i) the presence and population density of vultures in PAs compared with those in unprotected forests and agricultural landscapes; (ii) counts of the breeding population, nesting preferences and environmental factors for such variables; and (iii) the impacts of policies designed to combat the effects of the deadly diclofenac drug on vulture populations. Quantitative (total counts of vultures and nests, transect surveys) and qualitative (semi-structured interviews, secondary data surveys) methodologies were used in data collection, to provide an adequate information base. White-rumped, Longbilled, Egyptian and Red-headed vultures (resident) and Cinereous Vulture, Eurasian Griffon and Himalayan Griffon (migratory) were recorded in PAs. The probability of vulture occupancy was significantly higher in PAs (44–51%), than in unprotected forest (17.6–17.8%) and agricultural areas (0.03%). The average vulture density in PAs (0.529 ±0.228 km-2 ) was also much higher than in unprotected forest (0.014±0.012 km-2 ) and agricultural areas. The presence of active, inactive and abandoned nests in PAs revealed favorable habitat conditions for breeding, potential breeding and floater vulture categories. Disturbance factors were insignificant. The statutory ban on diclofenac use had a significant impact on vulture populations within the PAs, but this factor was insignificant in surrounding areas. These findings indicate a positive role of PAs in conservation, with insignificant impacts of the diclofenac ban across different types of landcover. It is concluded that increased promotion of environmental education is important to ensure effective vulture conservation and the success of PAs.