Good News for Bird Lovers: Encouraging Rise in Vulture Population Recorded During Madhya Pradesh's 2026 Summer Census
The summer phase of Madhya Pradesh's state-wide vulture census for 2026–27 was conducted from May 22 to May 24 across the state's forests, tiger reserves, and protected areas. This exercise encompassed all 16 forest divisions, 9 tiger reserves, areas managed by the Forest Development Corporation, and other protected zones.
9,394 adult birds and 1,348 juveniles counted
According to preliminary estimates, this year's summer census recorded approximately 10,742 vultures across the state, comprising 9,394 adult birds and 1,348 juveniles. This figure represents an increase of roughly 1,200 birds compared to last year's count of 9,509 vultures, signaling a positive outcome for the ongoing conservation efforts within the state.
Census was conducted entirely through a specially developed app
The counting process was carried out every morning from sunrise until 9:00 AM by Forest Department officials and staff, with the assistance of volunteers, bird enthusiasts, and local residents. This year, the census was conducted entirely through a specially developed mobile application named the 'Vulture Census Online App,' which enabled officials to compile data quickly and efficiently in real-time.
Madhya Pradesh first initiated a state-wide vulture census in 2016, when approximately 7,028 vultures were recorded. Since then, this exercise has become a regular endeavor aimed at monitoring the bird population. Last year, both winter and summer counts were conducted, and the winter census for the current year was also completed earlier this year.
Birds flying overhead were excluded to avoid double-counting
To enhance the effectiveness of the survey, online training sessions were organized for master trainers, NGO representatives, and Forest Department personnel prior to the commencement of the census. During the exercise, teams arrived at designated nesting sites immediately after sunrise and counted the vultures perched near the nests, including chicks. Only vultures resting or perched at identified locations were included in the count, while birds flying overhead were excluded to avoid double-counting.
In addition to Forest Department staff, scientists, ornithologists, students, and local citizens also participated in this exercise across various locations in Madhya Pradesh. A control room has been established at Van Vihar National Park, where officials are currently compiling and analyzing the census data.