The Old-World vulture known as the Himalayan vulture, or Himalayan griffon vulture, is native to the Himalayas and the Tibetan Plateau that surrounds them. As an original raptor, it is one of the two biggest Old-World vultures. The Himalayan vulture’s legs are coated in buffy feathers that differ in color from greenish grey to pale brown. Its larger covert feathers, tail, and wing quills are all dark brown, but its uniform upper-side is light brown and is whiter tipped. The bottom of the bird is buff or pale brown, and in some cases almost white, as are the underwing coverts. The whitish down on an adult bird’s head gives way to long, spiky ruff feathers and a pale brown ruff with white streaks as it grows.

In Uttarakhand, these vultures are mostly found in the higher altitudes, especially in the regions near the Himalayas. They can be seen gliding effortlessly above the mountains, using the warm air currents to stay aloft without much effort. These birds are not just beautiful to watch; they serve an essential function in the environment.
The Himalayan Griffon Vulture is a scavenger, meaning it feeds on the remains of dead animals. By doing this, they help keep the environment clean. They prevent the spread of diseases that could occur if waste were left to decay. This role makes them a vital part of the natural system in Uttarakhand and other parts of the Himalayas.
But there is a threat to this vulture population. Their numbers have been dropping in recent years for a variety of causes. The use of a medication called diclofenac in livestock is one of the primary risks. The drug poisons the animals treated with it, causing them to perish when vultures consume their remains. By prohibiting the use of diclofenac and promoting better alternatives, conservationists in Uttarakhand and other areas are making an important attempt to safeguard these birds.
In Uttarakhand, efforts are also being made to create awareness about the importance of vultures in the ecosystem. Educational programs and conservation projects are helping to protect the habitats of these magnificent birds. Local communities are being encouraged to participate in vulture conservation by keeping their environment clean and reporting any threats to these birds.
The Himalayan Griffon Vulture is more than just a bird; it is a symbol of the delicate balance of nature in Uttarakhand. Protecting this species is crucial for maintaining the health of the environment and ensuring that future generations can continue to witness the grace of these incredible creatures soaring over the Himalayan skies.