The Population Decline of Gyps Vultures in India and Nepal Has Slowed since Veterinary Use of Diclofenac was Banned

摘要: Populations of oriental white-backed vulture (Gyps bengalensis), long-billed indicus) and slender-billed tenuirostris) crashed during the mid-1990s throughout Indian subcontinent. Surveys in India, initially conducted 1991–1993 repeated 2000, 2002, 2003 2007, revealed that population Gyps bengalensis had fallen by 2007 to 0.1% its numbers early 1990s, with indicus G. tenuirostris combined having 3.2% earlier level. A survey western Nepal indicated size 2009 was 25% 2002. In this paper, repeat surveys 2011 were analysed estimate recent trends. all three species remained at a low level, but decline slowed may even have reversed for bengalensis, both India Nepal. However, estimates most trends are imprecise, so it is possible declines be continuing, though significantly slower rate. The degree which has consistent expected effects on trend measured change level contamination ungulate carcasses drug diclofenac, toxic vultures, following ban veterinary use 2006. available information indicates elimination diclofenac from vultures’ food supply incomplete, further efforts required fully implement ban.