Multiple choice

The Indian Vulture has suffered a decline of 99-97% between 2000 and 2007. What has/have been the primary cause(s) behind it?

  1. Poisoning caused by a cattle drug
  2. Genetic pollution caused by uncontrolled hybridisation

  1. Only 1

  2. Only 2

  3. Both 1 and 2

  4. Neither 1 nor 2

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

The Indian Vulture and the Indian White-rumped Vulture, G. bengalensis species have suffered a 99%-97% population decrease in Pakistan and India, and between 2000-2007, annual decline rates of this species and the Slender-billed Vulture averaged over 16%. The cause of this has been identified as poisoning caused by the veterinary drug diclofenac. The drug is believed to be swallowed by vultures with the flesh of dead cattle which were given diclofenac in the last days of life. Diclofenac causes kidney failure in several species of vultures. As of August 2011, the ban for veterinary use has been in place for approximately a year, but diclofenac was still being used for animals throughout India.