ulture Network Portal – Key Points
What is it?
- A cloud-based portal designed as a knowledge and awareness platform for vultures in India.
- First of its kind in India to build a network of people working to save vultures.
Who developed it?
- Developed by We Foundation India with support from:
✔ Assam Bird Monitoring Network
✔ Other partner organizations.
Purpose:
- Compile scientific information about vultures.
- Spread awareness on threats and conservation.
- Provide freely downloadable outreach materials for awareness campaigns.
Main Issues Addressed:
- Carcass poisoning – a major threat.
- Harmful veterinary drugs like diclofenac affecting vulture populations.
- Negative social perceptions leading to population decline.
Languages:
- Information is being disseminated in local languages, starting with Assamese.
✅ Vultures Found in India
- Slender-billed vulture – ~800 mature individuals left.
- White-rumped vulture
- Red-headed vulture
- Himalayan griffon
- Indian vulture
- Cinereous vulture
- Eurasian griffon
- Egyptian vulture
- Bearded vulture
✅ Significance
- Addresses declining vulture populations.
- Builds a community-driven conservation network.
- Educates people on ecological importance and threats.
- Promotes local language awareness.