Indian Wildlife Club Forum

First release of captive-bred* vultures in Asia

Nepal and SAVE witnessed a further landmark for Asian vulture conservation on 17th September 2018, when the Government of Nepal and national and international conservation organisations released 12 critically endangered white-rumped vultures Gyps bengalensis, including the first eight birds actually hatched within the conservation breeding programme. Releases last year of birds reared (but not hatched) in the programme have so far shown very promising signs of survival and success, and in addition, 20 wild birds have now been satellite-tagged  - 11 in 2017, and a further 9 just prior to this release.

The first gate opens and several birds immediately joined the wild birds at the carcass outside. Photo: BCN

The work is a truly collaborative effort of many partners, led by Bird Conservation Nepal (BCN) and the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) together with Chitwan National Park and the Department of National Parks & Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC). The Director General of DNPWC and a small group of officials, scientists and community leaders watched as the BCN team quietly opened the doors of the release aviary using a remote pulley system. Six of the twelve vultures exited the release aviary and joined the wild birds feeding on the buffalo carcass almost immediately, and all twelve came out within half an hour. Six of the birds later returned inside the aviary where they spent the night, but immediately flew out again the following morning. The release site is at the village of Pithauli, Nawalparasi, close to Nepal’s Chitwan National Park.

“This is a world first for the release of white-rumped vultures actually bred in the Nepal breeding centre and is a major step for establishing secure wild populations now that we are confident that the veterinary use of diclofenac has been stopped in this country” said Mr Man Bahadur Khadka, DG, DNPWC.

The previous week, an expert team from the UK (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and Forestry Commission) together with the BCN team had fitted satellite tags to the birds with carefully designed harnesses (using the thoracic cross-hatch method), ready so they can be monitored after the release, and give us vital information about their movements, and any problems or causes of mortality . The team also caught and tagged nine wild white-rumped vultures, which are already being monitored, to compare their movements and behaviour with the released birds.

Fitting the satellite tag and wing-tags a week before the release. Photo: BCN

“The monitoring of the satellite-tagged birds is an important way to understand how well the birds are surviving, and to assess the safety of the “Vulture Safe Zone” said Ishana Thapa, CEO of BCN.  “If these and the previously tagged birds all survive then this is a further sign that the vulture conservation efforts are working”. Krishna Bhusal, BCN’s Vulture Conservation Program Officer of BCN added: “Releasing vultures, hatched in captivity, in this location, combines our in situ and ex situ efforts to save these birds, and the process of keeping the birds in the pre-release aviary for several months before release allows them to adjust and interact with wild birds - This is an exciting day for me and all Nepal”.

The officials slowly open the first gate of the release aviary using the remote pulley. Photo: BCN

Chitwan’s Chief Conservation Officer, Bed Kumar Dhakal said “We are proud that the vulture breeding at the Breeding Centre in Chitwan National Park has taken off, with nine chicks last year and six more in 2018”.  Jemima Parry Jones, UK birds of prey expert from the International Centre for Birds of Prey (ICBP) who advises the project said “Breeding and releasing these birds is a great credit to all involved, and shows how a combination of international and national partners can work successfully together to achieve very significant results. The huge success of the VSZs has meant we can have these amazing releases and aim towards all the vultures being back out in the wild by 2023”. Craig Pritchard, senior vet representing ZSL said how the birds all appeared to be in very good condition, and how pleased and privileged he felt to be part of this joint collaborative effort.

Briefing and speeches of the release immediately beforehand. Photo: BCN

Mr DB Choudhary, the local conservation community leader added “The Nawalparasi community is proud that their area has been selected for this historic release, following a series of vulture conservation initiatives in the area including running the vulture-safe feeding site here since 2006”

Chris Bowden, RSPB and Saving Asia’s Vultures from Extinction (SAVE) Programme Manager said “The successful removal of veterinary diclofenac across Nepal thanks to a lot of hard work, is the real reason behind the success so far and without this we couldn’t have gone ahead. These are the first ever Asian vultures to have been hatched and bred within a breeding programme and taken to the concluding phase of release to the wild. This illustrates the rationale behind these efforts and if enough birds survive without encountering killer veterinary drugs, we will be on track to release all the birds by 2023”

The vulture conservation work in Nepal is carried out with the full support of DNPWC, and led by BCN. The breeding centre was established in 2008 and is jointly managed by NTNC and Chitwan National Park. The main funding (and technical) support has come from the RSPB, but significant resources also come from all organisations involved as well as the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) who provide veterinary support and helped with funds for the release aviary, and the International Centre for Birds of Prey (ICBP) in the UK.

Flying free. Photo: Rajendra Gurung BCN

Calendar of the Nepal white-rumped vulture release programme so far:

• April 2017: Transfer of the first 6 captive-reared* birds from the breeding centre to the release aviary.                                                  Trapped, satellite-tagged and released 6 wild white-rumped vultures

• November 2017: First release of 6 captive-reared birds.  (Note five of the six released birds still alive and well after 10 months, but one was lost, possibly predated by a leopard)

Caught and tagged 5 more wild birds.

• April 2018: Transferred 12 vultures from the breeding centre to the release aviaries.

• September 2018: Released the first 8 captive-bred birds*, plus a further 4 captive-reared birds.                                                                        Also tagged and released 9 more wild birds.

• There is now a total of 37 satellite tagged white rumped vultures, 20 wild birds and 17 released. All were caught or released in Nawalparasi in Nepal.

*Captive reared vultures are birds that came in as chicks collected from wild nests (in 2009 and 2010) reared and placed in the breeding centre for the breeding programme.

* Captive bred vultures are the offspring of those captive reared birds, hatched and parent reared in the breeding programme.

For more information on the Saving Asia’s Vultures from Extinction (SAVE) partnership and further news updates check www.save-vultures.org  and www.birdlifenepal.org

Many IWC members send queries about wildlife conservation as a career choice.   Many youngsters have great passion but find there is a lack of opportunities to qualify with an"appropriate" degree.   There is also a lack of openings in general.  

I recently interviewed Shaleen Attre, a passionate wildlife lover.  With no "Science background" she found it impossible to get admission for any environmental degree courses in India.   Her vast field experience working with NGOs in wildlife area did not count when it came to admission.

Here is the video recording. Watch it at the link

https://youtu.be/y5Nw5-aKO78

Safety & Bird Hazard Management/Control

at Mumbai Airport

Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport provides an ideal grassland habitat for many bird species. A number of bird species are attracted to the airport to feed, perch, roost and breed; this includes birds of prey, scavengers, & the ones that feed on insects and plant material. The airport is also surrounded by slums where, many meat shops, slaughtering of animals is done and waste and garbage disposal system is not done properly and also their big open nallahs provide an attractive environment for birds.

WHAT IS BIRD STRIKE?

Bird strike is the term used to describe the collision of an aircraft with a bird. Collisions involving other animals are also recorded as animal strikes. All suspected or confirmed strikes are reported to Director General of Civil Aviation.

PREDOMINANT BIRD SPECIES

Species most commonly involved in the bird strike incidents at Mumbai International Airport include Pariah Kite, Pigeons, Egrets, Owls, Myna, Red-Wattled Lapwing, Crows and Bats. Species such as, Sandpiper, Black Eagle, Indian Pond Heron are also regularly observed at the airport but rarely struck by aircraft.

Different species of birds occupy and utilize different sectors of the environment and therefore, pose different risks to aircraft. For example, birds that hover above the ground searching for prey (eg Pariah Kite, Eagle) pose a risk to aircraft during landing or take off. Bird species, such as Egrets, Crows & Pigeons form flocks which create the risk of multiple bird strikes. Other species, such as pigeons, sparrows feed on the ground around taxiways and may be struck by taxiing aircraft. As a result each species needs to be managed differently.

IMPACT OF BIRD STRIKES

The primary risk associated with bird strike is the hazard posed to aviation safety. Bird strikes can cause significant damage to aircraft, aircraft   crashes and potentially the loss of human life. Colliding with a bird can cause millions of dollars damage to aircraft engines and turbines as well as contributing to airline costs due to grounding of aircraft for repair. It is also important to note the loss of the birds life as a result of a strike.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF MUMBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT LIMITED

MIAL, as the airport operator, is responsible for and committed to ensuring passenger safety. Under the International Civil Aviation Safety Regulations and Director General of Civil Aviation the airport is required to reduce the risks associated with the bird strike.

WHAT IS DONE TO REDUCE THE RISK OF BIRD STRIKE?

MIAL has put in place management strategies to ensure airport operations are conducted safely. A Wildlife Hazard Management Policy has been developed and implemented at Mumbai Airport which puts in place measures to reduce hazards associated with all wildlife. The most important objective is to maintain the grassland habitat around the runway in such a way so that birds are not encouraged to feed in areas close to the runways and taxiways. For example, the grass is mowed regularly to a height (30-20 cms) that discourages birds that feed on bulbs and worms; weeds that are known food source for birds are minimized; and drains are kept clear of refuse which could attract birds.

Certain tree and shrub species used in landscaping may also potentially attract more birds to the vicinity of the airport. Therefore, the Environment Department of MIAL advises and approves the landscaping plans for new developments at Mumbai Airport. MIAL has even produced Landscaping Guidelines that provide a preferred plant list to tenants and developers alike.

The Wildlife Officers employed by MIAL also have an important role in bird management and a three tier approach of  – 1) Precaution  2) Prevention and 3) Remedial action is adopted. If birds are posing a risk to aircraft and passenger safety, bird scarers deployed alongside the runway length use scare methods by exploding fire crackers in an attempt to disperse the flock and clear the birds away from the runways and taxiways. Wildlife Officers also take their vehicles with bird scaring guns and cartridges which are used to disperse the flock. These cartridges produce a loud bang when fired which can help scare birds away from the immediate area. MIAL has also placed Sound Devices (Super Pro Amp), which make loud explosive sounds at limited intervals, to scare birds in the vicinity of runway.

Airfield Environment Management Committee meeting, chaired by State Environment Secretary  held at airport and attended by MCGM, MIAL, Airlines, DGCA, Forest and NGO’s. Wildlife Hazard section also conducting monthly joint inspection with BMC officials of all wards adjacent to CSI Airport.

• 100% of venues with captive elephants, tigers, dolphins or civet cats didn’t meet basic needs of animals in captivity
• 80% of venues with primates didn’t meet the basic needs of captive wild animals

• All dolphins were kept in severely inadequate conditions – one pool estimated to be 10X20 metres and three metres deep housed four bottlenose dolphins
• Dolphins at one venue have had their teeth filed down or removed entirely to ensure they are unable to injure swimmers
• All of the elephant venues offered elephant rides - elephants suffer a cruel and intensive training process that involves severe restraint. Severe pain is also often inflicted to speed up the process and quickly establish dominance. This highly traumatic experience will stay with the elephant forever
• Nearly 15% of elephants displayed stereotypies – abnormal repetitive behaviours – including swaying and foot shuffling – which indicate distress and suffering
• All venues with orangutans offered selfie experiences. Forced to entertain queues of tourists, many of these animals lacked freedom of movement, opportunities for social interaction and any stimulating activities.

Blessed with exotic flora and unique geographical features, Kerala boasts of having some of themost diverse wildlife sanctuaries in the world. Here is a list comprising ofthe best wildlife resorts where one can enjoy the natural scenic beauty and thewild in “God’s Own Country”!

Muthanga National Park/Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

What to look for: Panthers, Tigers, Elephants, Jungle Cats

Resorts

Whispering Woods

Ranked as one of thebest wildlife resorts in the country, Whispering Woods is a perfect retreat forthose who love to spend some time away from the maddening city life. Surroundedby lush coffee plantations, the place has lovely accommodation options,-ranging from stilt cottages to well-maintained tents. Both the hospitality andlocation of Whispering Woods is simply outstanding.

Jungle Parks Resort

Situated at the foothills of Vythiri, Jungle Parks Resort has beautiful villas, eco-lodges andtree houses that offer a memorable stay experience. Every room here offersunmatched views of the surroundings. One of the major highlights of this resortis its location which is in close proximity to the national park along withother famous attractions. Want to experience all this and more? Search and bookcheap New Delhi to Cochin flights to have a fun-filledvacation!

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

What to look for: BengalTigers, Malabar giant squirrels, NilgiriTahrs, etc.

Resorts

Green Woods

Green Woods, a 4-starproperty, promises a perfect blend of luxury and comfort in nature’s lap.Situated atop a hillock, the place boasts of a rustic charm which is wellreflected in its quaint cottages, the lantern-lit pathways and the woodenbenches which are quietly placed across the resort.

KTDC Lake Palace

Situated right in themiddle of Periyar National Park, KTDC Lake Palace is one of the most famousaccommodation options here. It offers the signature Kerala hospitality alongwith lovely, upscale rooms with unparalleled views of the soothing greenery.

Anavilasam

A luxury plantationstay, Anavilasam is situated just 8 km from Periyar National Park. Surroundedby cardamom and pepper plantations, the place is a wonderful retreat and offersboutique-styled accommodation options, ranging from pool and presidentialvillas, deluxe rooms to luxury suits. You can also enjoy interesting activitieslike cooking classes, tiger trails, bamboo rafting, plantation tours, nightjungle patrol and village tours.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

What to look for:Siberian cranes, moorhens, Brahminy Kites, etc.

Vivanta by Taj

Aptly called the “Jewel of Kumarakom”, Vivanta by Taj is located on the banksof Vembanad Lake. The resort has beautifully done luxury villas, heritage roomsand cottage accommodations which promise a relaxed stay experience amidstnatural scenic beauty. Sightseeing tours and customized tours are alsoavailable on request.

Plan a trip to theseplaces and get a chance to stay close to the nature!

One just has to refreshingly watch theWainganga river, the royal Seoni Hills and fill with amazement at the beautiful gorgewhere Mowgli killed Sher Khan (villain tiger of  The Jungle Book) - to happily accept the blendof reality and fiction in perfection at PenchTiger Reserve.

The dense wild forests which are a partof "Pench"in Madhya Pradesh were announced as a national park in theyear 1983 and a tiger reserve in theyear 1993.

Situated on the NH-7, Pench National Parkis in between the Seoni and Chhindwara districts of Madhya Pradesh state inIndia. This wildlife hub is just convenient train ride and short road driveaway from major cities like Mumbai, Pune& Nagpur. The nearest airport isNagpur. The Pench Tiger Reserve area canbe easily reached from Pauni throughtwo major entry gates–Karmajhiri and Turiya. With a number of PenchNational Park Tour Packages offering luxury stays near to the safari hub, PenchNational Park is thus an amazing choice for a family/group vacation.

If you planning to book Pench National Park TourPackages, then remember the best time to visit the wildlife park is between Octoberand May. While summer months of April, May and Early June are when the tiger andother rare wildlife sight seeings are highest. The timings for safari are from earlymorning 6 am to 10.30 am and afternoon 3 pm to 6 pm. You need to do onlinesafari booking in Pench for your whole process to be quitewell-organized.Also you need to ensure that the online safari booking in Penchis completed months in advance to avoid last minute hassle andnon-availibility.

Talking about the rich wildlife,Pench is primarily renowned for the Royal Bengal Tiger. According to the recent TigerCensus, it has been estimated that there are nearly 40 tigers in the park.Further, it is also home to 42 species of mammals, 15 species of reptiles, and 4species of amphibians in the wildlife park. Interestingly, you will come acrossa number of striking animals such as chital, sambar, nilgai, wild pig,gaur and jackals to name a few. If you are fortunate, you might also see thegreat Indian leopard, sloth bear, and the stunning striped hyena.

You will findsome of the best Pench Resorts that will provide you with comfortable accommodationfacilities, WiFi,  entertainment andother important amenities. At Pench Resorts, you will also meet someamazing wildlife tour guides and forest specialists who respond to animal calls.

One of the primethings to understand during your Pench Adventure Safari is how the tour guidesand the expert jeep driver answer to forest calls so as to consider right directionto head in for highest chances of spotting the tiger. From bird chirping tomonkey calls, the guides give close attention to everything that goes on in theforest as well as teach you some interesting new things during your safari tripat Punch.

So, If you make 2-3 Pench national park safari booking during your weekend stay at Pench,your are almost certain to spot the tiger at least once. You can choose any ofthe top wildlife tour operators such as Mumbai Travellers and do a bookingof pench national park safari for your family and friends.