Vultures are vital to biodiversity in the environments they inhabit. These remarkable birds provide critically important ecosystem services by efficiently cleaning up carcasses and other organic waste in the environment. In essence, they are nature’s garbage collectors, and this role translates into significant economic and public health benefits.
The disappearance of vultures would be devastating. Often, the true value of these birds is only recognised after they have vanished from a particular region. Studies have shown that in areas without vultures, carcasses can take three to four times longer to decompose. This has serious implications for the spread of diseases in both wild and domestic animals, as well as elevating pathogenic risks to human populations and their livestock.
The Multi-species Action Plan to Conserve African-Eurasian Vultures (Vulture MsAP) is the result of extensive consultation with stakeholders, conservation experts, and species specialists. The overarching goal of this comprehensive plan is to rapidly halt the current population declines of all 15 African-Eurasian vulture species across their vast range.
The Vulture MsAP covers the combined land masses of Africa and Eurasia, with a total of 128 Range States hosting populations of one or more vulture species. Range States are encouraged to use the MsAP as a guide for drafting national vulture conservation action plans tailored to their specific circumstances.
To reverse recent population trends and restore the conservation status of each species to a favourable level.
To provide conservation management guidelines applicable to all Range States within the plan's scope.
Adopted in 2017 at the 12th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS COP12), the Vulture MsAP outlines a roadmap with specific objectives, results, and 124 actions covering policy, legislation, research, monitoring, education, and on-the-ground interventions.
Of these 124 actions, 17 were identified as essential for immediate implementation to address critical threats facing vultures, including:
New World vultures inhabiting the Americas face similar challenges like poisoning, but conservation efforts should be tailored to their unique challenges based on species and regions.
The California Condor, once nearly extinct, has seen population increases thanks to intensive captive breeding and reintroduction programmes. However, lead poisoning remains a significant threat, and ongoing research aims to mitigate this issue by promoting the use of non-lead ammunition among hunters.
The Andean Condor is another focus of conservation efforts. These birds face threats from lead poisoning to habitat loss and hunting. Conservation actions include habitat protection, environmental education, and the implementation of captive breeding programmes to bolster wild populations.
Black Vultures and Turkey Vultures, though currently listed as Least Concern, are also monitored to ensure they remain stable. Research on their ecological roles helps highlight their importance in nutrient cycling and disease control, especially important for the Black Vulture that increasingly faces human-wildlife conflict.
Efforts to conserve the Greater Yellow-headed Vulture and the Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture focus on habitat preservation in the Amazon and other tropical regions. These species benefit from forest conservation initiatives that protect large tracts of their natural habitats from deforestation and degradation.
The King Vulture, with its striking appearance, is monitored for local population declines. Conservation actions include habitat protection and further research to fill gaps in knowledge about its population trends and ecology.
Secure critical habitats through legal protection and conservation actions to prevent habitat loss and degradation.
Implement systematic population monitoring and conduct research on threats and habitat use to inform conservation actions.
Address specific threats such as lead poisoning, habitat destruction, and hunting through targeted interventions and policy changes.
Educate local communities on the importance of vultures and engage them in conservation efforts to foster coexistence and support for conservation initiatives.
Advocate for and enforce policies that protect vultures and their habitats, ensuring sustainable conservation outcomes.
Progress and lessons learned
Significant progress has been made in vulture conservation, thanks to the dedicated efforts of governments, conservation organisations, and local communities. However, the threats facing vultures remain severe and challenging to address. A renewed, coordinated approach led by governments and supported by all stakeholders is required to ensure the long-term survival of these remarkable birds.
Lessons learned from successful conservation initiatives can be applied more widely, but new and creative solutions are also needed to tackle the clear and present danger that threatens to drive vultures to extinction. The many stakeholders concerned with vulture conservation must work together, driven by a shared commitment to safeguarding these vital scavengers.
Your role in vulture conservation
Participants and supporters of International Vulture Awareness Day are a key stakeholder group in achieving this goal. You can play a crucial role in vulture conservation by:
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