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VOL. 10, ISSUE 3 (2025)
Feeding behavioural alterations in vultures due to environmental contamination
Authors
Annapurna Sahu
Abstract
Vultures are important scavenger birds that help maintain ecosystem
balance by feeding on dead animals and preventing the spread of harmful
diseases. They play a major role in cleaning the environment naturally.
However, in recent years, environmental contamination has seriously affected
vulture populations and their feeding behaviour (Green et al., 2004).
Toxic substances such as veterinary medicines, pesticides, heavy metals,
industrial pollutants, and plastic waste are becoming major threats to these
birds. Among them, diclofenac, a veterinary anti-inflammatory drug, has caused
severe population decline in many Asian vulture species after vultures consumed
contaminated livestock carcasses (Oaks et al., 2004).Environmental
pollution also changes the normal feeding habits of vultures. Many vultures are
now forced to feed on garbage dumps, slaughterhouse waste, and contaminated
carcasses because of decreasing natural food availability (Carvalho et al.,
2022). This increases their exposure to plastics, toxic chemicals, and
disease-causing organisms. Contaminants may affect their digestion, foraging
movement, scavenging efficiency, and social feeding behaviour. Heavy metals and
pesticides can also weaken their health and reduce survival rates (Gangoso et
al., 2009).The present paper reviews how environmental contamination alters
feeding behaviour in vultures and explains its ecological impacts. It also
discusses important conservation measures such as banning harmful veterinary
drugs, improving waste management, monitoring pollutants, and establishing safe
feeding zones to support long-term vulture conservation and population
recovery.
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Pages:119-123
How to cite this article:
Annapurna Sahu "Feeding behavioural alterations in vultures due to environmental contamination". International Journal of Zoology Studies, Vol 10, Issue 3, 2025, Pages 119-123
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