The decline of vulture populations in India due to a veterinary drug called diclofenac has had a devastating impact on human health. By the mid-1990s, India’s 50 million-strong vulture population had plummeted to near zero.

A new study found by State of India’s birds stated that the loss of these scavenging birds led to the spread of deadly bacteria and infections, resulting in an estimated 500,000 additional human deaths between 2000-2005.

This was due to factors like an increase in the stray dog population spreading rabies, and poor disposal of rotting animal remains leading to contamination of water supplies.

The decimation of vultures, which are considered nature’s “sanitation service”, underscores the critical role these birds play in maintaining public health and ecosystem balance.

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Experts warn that ongoing threats like veterinary drugs and habitat loss continue to endanger India’s remaining vulture populations.

Restoring these scavenger bird numbers is crucial to prevent further loss of human life.