The Indian Vultures of Orchha
Jan 13th, 2012 by andrew skeoch
Among the mogul ruins of the ancient Indian town of Orchha, are the huge Raja and Jahangir Mahals, the Chaturbhuj Temple and a collection of impressive chhatris (cenotaphs) on the banks of the River Betwa.
Atop the rooftops of these decaying buildings roost a colony of Indian Vultures. They are huge birds, but we didn’t notice them at first as they blend into the baroque ornament of the spires and parapets. However when they spread their wings and take to the air, they cast shadows on the ground, and looking up… well, they are magnificent. When they alight again, they look so much a part of the roofline – medieval gargoyles, stern against the sky.
Sadly, Indian Vultures have suffered huge population declines – around 98% – in recent years, due to the widespread use of a cattle drug which persists in carcasses and causes kidney failure in vultures. The Govt has banned the drug as of 2010, but it is still being used and it will take a while before it is replaced. And many more years before populations of this long-lived bird may recover.
Critically endangered – The majestic Indian Vulture.
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