Vulture populations across Africa and Asia are in catastrophic decline primarily due to poisoning, both intentional and accidental, causing immense suffering and ecosystem disruption.
Vultures dying from poisoning endure severe suffering from the toxicological effects of compounds like carbofuran and strychnine, which cause muscle convulsions, respiratory failure, and prolonged agony before death. The scale of vulture poisoning events — a single poisoned carcass can kill hundreds of vultures simultaneously — means individual welfare harm is compounded by catastrophic population impacts. Banning toxic agricultural chemicals, working with pastoral communities on alternative pest control, and prosecuting wildlife poisoners are all critical interventions.