Global Wildlife

Vulture Crisis in Africa and Asia

Vulture populations across Africa and Asia have crashed dramatically, with many species in catastrophic decline from poisoning, persecution and demand for body parts in traditional medicine.

Key Facts

African vulture populations declined 80% or more in some species over three decades
Diclofenac veterinary drug poisoning caused near extinction of Asian vultures
Poisoned carcasses left for lions also kill large numbers of vultures
Vulture body parts are used in traditional African medicine and cultural ceremonies
Vultures prevent disease spread by rapidly consuming carcasses - ecosystem services worth billions

Welfare Considerations

Vulture poisoning causes suffering on a massive scale. A single poisoned elephant carcass can kill hundreds of vultures. Switching to vulture-safe veterinary drugs like meloxicam is a proven intervention. Demand reduction for traditional medicine use requires cultural engagement.

What You Can Do

Advocate for veterinary drug regulations that protect vultures from diclofenac
Support Vulture Conservation Foundation and BirdLife Africa vulture programmes
Raise awareness of vultures' critical ecological role in disease prevention