A large number of Eurasian griffon vultures have been spotted in Toba Tharo Lal, an area of Yazman in the Rahim Yar Khan district, marking a significant reappearance of the species in their natural habitats within Punjab.
- Rare sighting of Eurasian griffon vultures in southern Punjab.
- Conservation efforts targeting harmful veterinary drugs and habitat loss.
- Experts view the sighting as a sign of improving local vulture populations.
Unusual Presence in Southern Punjab
Wildlife experts noted that Eurasian griffon vultures are primarily found in the northern mountainous regions of Pakistan, including Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and parts of Balochistan.
Their presence in Punjab is considered limited and unusual. While sightings in southern areas like Cholistan occur, they are often linked to seasonal movements or the search for food.
Mujahid Kaleem, Assistant Chief of the Rahim Yar Khan Wildlife Ranger, stated that while the birds exist in small, scattered numbers across the country, they remain rare in Punjab with limited evidence of breeding populations.
Environmental Role and Population Risks
As primary scavengers that feed on carcasses, these vultures play a vital role in maintaining environmental sanitation. However, the species faces several critical threats at the local level.
Bader Muneer, a member of the Punjab Captive Wildlife Management Committee, identified the veterinary drug diclofenac as the most significant threat. The toxin enters the vultures’ systems through livestock carcasses and proves fatal.
Additional risks include habitat loss, food scarcity, human interference, and collisions with power lines.
Conservation and Recovery
Although the Eurasian griffon vulture is listed globally as a species of least concern, local population declines have remained a priority for wildlife officials.
Sheikh Muhammad Zahid, Additional Chief of the South Punjab Wildlife Ranger, said the department is implementing awareness campaigns, establishing protected areas, and enforcing restrictions on harmful drugs.
Zahid added that the recent large sighting in the region indicates that conservation efforts are showing results and suggests the population may be gradually increasing.
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