20 March,2026 09:59 PM IST | Mumbai | Ranjeet Jadhav
Kaziranga Tiger Reserve and BNHS comes together for Vulture release initiative (Pic/Special arrangement)
In a landmark step for wildlife conservation, Kaziranga Tiger Reserve (KTR), in collaboration with the Bombay Natural History Society, on Friday released five endangered Slender-billed Vulture into a newly constructed soft-release aviary at Biswanath.
This initiative marks the first-ever release of captive-bred Slender-billed Vultures in India. It also marks a major step by the Assam Forest Department towards rebuilding the dwindling population of the critically endangered species in the wild.
The five vultures were brought from the Rani breeding centre in Assam, which was established in 2007 and has successfully bred 56 Slender-billed Vultures so far.
Experts say that the centre has now reached a stage where 5 to 10 birds can be released annually. Additionally, BNHS has bred over 60 vultures at its Haryana facility, which will further support future releases.
After being shifted to Biswanath, the birds have been placed in a soft-release aviary at Tewaripal village, where they will undergo acclimatisation for a few months before being released into the wild.
They further noted that five of the vultures have been fitted with solar-powered tracking tags, while all have been ringed for identification, enabling authorities to monitor their movement and survival.
Speaking at the event, BNHS president Praveen Pardeshi lauded the Assam Forest Department and KTR administration for their efforts in reviving the species and emphasised the importance of involving local communities in conservation initiatives.
Vinay Gupta, Chief Wildlife Warden of Assam, further highlighted that the project could also boost eco-tourism in the region, creating livelihood opportunities for local youth.
Dr Sonali Ghosh, Field Director KTR, reiterated their commitment to conserving lesser-known species. She further emphasised that while wild populations of the Slender-billed Vulture still breed in Kaziranga, the release of captive-bred birds is expected to significantly strengthen their numbers.
The event was witnessed by various forest officials, BNHS staff, and residents of Tewaripal Village, marking a historic moment in India's conservation journey.
The event was attended by several key conservation figures, including BNHS President Praveen Pardeshi, Assam's Chief Wildlife Warden Vinay Gupta, BNHS Director Kishor Rithe, KTR Field Director Sonali Ghosh, Nameri Tiger Reserve Field Director Pirai, BNHS Centre Manager Sachin Ranade, and Biswanath DFO Ritupaban Borah.
