Indian Leopard predation on the sub-adult Himalayan Griffon Vulture (Accipitridae: Accipitriformes)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11609/jott.9255.16.11.26104-26109Keywords:
Buxa Tiger Reserve, camera trap, Gyps himalayansis, leopard food, Panthera pardus fusca, post-release monitoring, vultures, vulture predation, wildlife conservation, wintering groundsAbstract
This study documents instances of predation on Himalayan Griffon Vulture Gyps himalayansis by Indian Leopards Panthera pardus fusca Meyer, 1794 near the pre-release aviary of the Buxa Vulture Conservation Breeding Centre within the Buxa Tiger Reserve. Camera trap monitoring revealed leopard predation on sub-adult vultures, highlighting a previously unreported threat to vulture populations. The adaptability of leopards to diverse ecosystems, coupled with their varied diet, underscores the need for further research to understand the implications of leopard predation on vulture conservation efforts. This documentation provides insights into the prey-predator interactions and emphasizes the importance of continued monitoring and conservation measures to safeguard vulnerable vulture populations.
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