Harmonizing ecology and society: an integrated analysis of vulture conservation in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, India

Abstract

The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve (NBR) in southern India is home to several critically endangered vulture species. This study in Mudumalai Tiger Reserve and Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve of NBR presents an integrated analysis of vulture conservation efforts focusing on harmonizing ecosystem preservation and community engagement. We assessed the current status of all four vulture species in the NBR using the road transect method, covering 2,040 km with 24 replications (January–December 2021). We undertook covert surveys in 82 veterinary pharmacies across four districts of Tamil Nadu to determine the availability of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), considering the 100-km vulture safe zone that included vulture nesting and foraging areas. As practical conservation efforts require active local community participation, our assessments include the perception study of local communities in 20 villages (eight tribal and 12 non-tribal) near vulture habitats. We focused on NSAID usage, considering the impact of numerous socio-economic factors on vulture conservation efforts. We surveyed 540 respondents using detailed questionnaires for these evaluations. The study underlined the need for a comprehensive vulture management plan that balances ecological concerns with the well-being and means of subsistence of surrounding communities. This study is helpful for future conservation efforts in other areas with comparable problems at the nexus of ecology and society.