Rare Red-Headed Vulture Sighted in Uttarakhand's Munsiyari

A Red-Headed Vulture (Sarcogyps calvus) was sighted on October 5, 2026, in the Munsiyari region of Pithoragarh district, Uttarakhand. The bird was observed in the Patalthod forest area at approximately 2,650 metres.

Key Facts

• Scientific name: Sarcogyps calvus

• Family: Accipitridae.

• IUCN status: Critically Endangered.

• Identification: Bare red head and neck with predominantly dark plumage.

• Distribution: Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia.

Ecological Significance

• The species feeds mainly on animal carcasses, helping remove decaying remains and recycle nutrients. The sighting highlights the importance of biodiversity monitoring in the western Himalayas.

Major Threats

• Veterinary diclofenac, which can cause fatal kidney damage in vultures feeding on treated livestock carcasses, has contributed to vulture declines in South Asia. Habitat disturbance and reduced food availability are additional concerns.

• India prohibited veterinary use of diclofenac in 2006.

Conservation Measures

• Effective enforcement of veterinary drug restrictions, habitat protection, population monitoring and coordination between forest departments and local communities are essential for vulture conservation.

MCQ - ENGLISH

Q. Consider the following statements about the Red-Headed Vulture:

1. Its scientific name is Sarcogyps calvus.

2. It is classified as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List.

3. Veterinary diclofenac has contributed to vulture mortality in South Asia.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(A) 1 and 2 only
(B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only
(D) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (D) 

Explanation: The Red-Headed Vulture is classified as Critically Endangered, and veterinary diclofenac has been a major cause of vulture mortality in South Asia.