Comparative Analysis of Seasonal Population Dynamics of Resident and Migratory Vultures in Southern Aravalli Districts (Udaipur, Sirohi and Chittorgarh) of Rajasthan

The present study assessed the population dynamics and distribution patterns of vultures in the Aravalli ranges of Rajasthan, focusing on Udaipur, Sirohi, and Chittorgarh districts, from October 2021 to March 2025. Standardized methods, including road transects, opportunistic sightings, and point count surveys, were employed to document vulture populations. A total of 2,788 individuals representing seven vulture species were recorded. Of these, four species-Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus), Indian Vulture (Gyps indicus), White-rumped Vulture (Gyps bengalensis) and Red-headed Vulture (Sarcogyps calvus) were identified as resident species, while three species-Cinereous Vulture (Aegypius monachus), Himalayan Griffon (Gyps himalayensis), and Eurasian Griffon (Gyps fulvus) were categorized as winter migrants. The Egyptian Vulture was the most abundant species, accounting for 57.35% of the total individuals recorded, followed by Himalayan Griffon (18.26%), Indian Vulture (13.52%), and Eurasian Griffon (8.07%). The lowest populations were observed for Cinereous Vulture (0.65%) and Red-headed Vulture (0.29%). Significant differences were observed in the distribution and abundance of vultures across the three districts, with Udaipur supporting the highest populations, followed by Sirohi and Chittorgarh. The study also documented marked seasonal, spatial, and temporal variations in both resident and migratory vulture species. Key factors influencing these patterns include variations in food availability, mortality of both juveniles and adults, and incidents of electrocution. These findings underscore the importance of site-specific conservation interventions and continued monitoring to ensure the long-term survival of vulture populations in the Aravalli landscape.