Chennai, March 5 (NationPress) The forest departments of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Karnataka are set to conduct a synchronized vulture census on March 7 and 8 across the Nilgiri landscape. This coordinated initiative aims to evaluate the population of these endangered scavengers in one of southern India's most significant habitats.

The survey will concentrate on essential forest ranges within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, recognized as a critical sanctuary for vultures in southern India.

Following promising findings from the last census, which indicated a marked increase in vulture populations across the three states, this survey is particularly anticipated.

In an exciting development, field staff from the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve recently discovered a vulture nest in the core area of the reserve, marking a first for the region. Previously, nesting activities were mainly recorded in buffer zones.

Forest officials have designated eight observation points within the core zone of Mudumalai for this year's survey to closely track nesting behaviors and population dynamics. The synchronized survey will encompass numerous key wildlife habitats across the Nilgiri landscape.

In Tamil Nadu, monitoring will occur in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve, and Tirunelveli Wildlife Sanctuary. In Karnataka, survey teams will focus on Bandipur Tiger Reserve, Nagarhole Tiger Reserve, and Biligiri Ranganatha Temple (BRT) Tiger Reserve. Meanwhile, the exercise in Kerala will center around the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.

Officials have emphasized the ecological significance of the Nilgiri landscape as a vital population source for vultures in southern India, which supports both breeding colonies and migratory visitors.

India hosts nine species of vultures, with seven recorded in Tamil Nadu, including resident breeding species like the White-rumped vulture, Long-billed vulture, and Red-headed vulture.

Other species, such as the Egyptian vulture, Himalayan griffon, Cinereous vulture, and Eurasian griffon, are typically observed as migratory visitors to the area.

This marks the fourth synchronized census within the Nilgiri landscape. The last census, conducted over 106 observation points covering approximately 4,670 square kilometers, noted an increase in the vulture population from 320 to 390 individuals.

Tamil Nadu recorded the highest count with 157 vultures, followed by Kerala with 125 and Karnataka with 106.

The census will depend on vantage-point observations and nest monitoring. Teams will document sightings during fixed observation periods, meticulously tracking flight directions and timing to prevent double-counting.

Nest counts will prioritize breeding cliffs and trees, with the previous census documenting 75 active nests, including 54 within the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. Each survey team will consist of at least four members, including a trained vulture specialist. Field teams will be equipped with binoculars, cameras, GPS devices, compasses, and standardized data sheets for precise and consistent data collection. Coordinates of observation points and nesting sites will also be recorded to facilitate long-term monitoring and conservation strategies.