Rehabilitated Indian Vulture Flies Over 1,600 Km, Marking Major Conservation Milestone

A rehabilitated Indian vulture has travelled more than 1,618 km in 56 days after being released into the wild in Maharashtra, marking a major success in efforts to conserve the critically endangered species, wildlife experts said.

The vulture, identified as J132, was released in Nashik on June 7 after two earlier release attempts were followed by recapture to improve its physical condition and survival prospects. Since its successful release, the bird has shown strong flying ability, navigation skills and adaptation to natural conditions.

According to the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), satellite tracking revealed that J132 maintained steady movement across northern Nashik and along the Maharashtra-Gujarat border, including parts of Valsad district. The bird recorded its longest single-day flight of 168 km on June 17.

BNHS officials said field monitoring teams observed J132 successfully associating with wild vultures in the Dol Ohol and Deodongra areas of Nashik. The bird was also seen independently locating and feeding on cattle carcasses alongside wild flocks, even during periods of heavy monsoon rainfall, indicating successful behavioural adaptation.

BNHS Director Kishor Rithe said the vulture has now fully adapted to life in the wild, displaying natural feeding behaviour and resilience in challenging weather conditions.

J132 was first released at the Pench Tiger Reserve on December 11, 2025, as part of the second batch of captive-bred Indian vultures. It travelled over 750 km to Nashik within 20 days before researchers recaptured it for further rehabilitation. A second release attempt earlier this year was also followed by recapture before the bird’s final successful release.

Researchers said tracking J132 will provide valuable information for identifying future release sites and improving conservation planning. BNHS scientist Manansingh Mahadev highlighted northern Nashik as an important habitat for Gyps vultures due to its rugged cliffs and favourable ecosystem.

The successful rehabilitation of J132 represents a significant milestone in India’s efforts to restore vulture populations, while demonstrating the importance of scientific monitoring and conservation programmes in protecting endangered wildlife.