Assam: Diclofenac poisoning suspected as Himalayan Vultures collapse in Dhubri

A pall of concern has fallen over the Suripara Sapotgram area of Dhubri district following a distressing incident where a Himalayan Griffon vulture was found dead and several others were observed falling from the sky, exhibiting symptoms strongly suggestive of diclofenac poisoning.

Eyewitnesses in Sapotgram reported seeing multiple large vultures suddenly plummeting from flight, exhibiting signs of disorientation and weakness before collapsing. Tragically, one of the majestic birds succumbed to these symptoms. 

The rapid onset of these signs has led experts to suspect diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used to treat livestock, as the primary cause. Diclofenac is highly toxic to vultures, causing rapid kidney failure and death even in small doses.

The Himalayan Griffon vulture (Gyps himalayensis) is a crucial scavenger in the Himalayan ecosystem, playing a vital role in maintaining ecological balance by disposing of animal carcasses. Their populations have already faced significant declines due to poisoning, primarily through the consumption of livestock carcasses contaminated with diclofenac.

"The scene in Sapotgram is deeply concerning," said a local wildlife activist Biswajit Barman who witnessed the incident. "To see these magnificent birds suddenly fall from the sky like that was shocking. The incident has prompted immediate calls for action. There is also a growing demand for increased awareness among livestock owners about the devastating impact of diclofenac on vulture populations and the availability of safe alternatives."

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"This incident serves as a stark reminder of the continued threat posed by diclofenac to our vulture populations," stated Barman. "Urgent intervention is required to treat the affected birds and to ensure that measures are taken to prevent further poisoning incidents. This includes stricter regulation of veterinary drugs and promoting the use of vulture-safe alternatives."

The public in the Sapotgram area is being cautioned to avoid disturbing the affected vultures and to immediately report any further sightings of sick or dead birds to the local forest department or wildlife authorities. Prompt action is crucial to potentially save the lives of the remaining injured vultures and to gather vital information about the source of the suspected poisoning.

This dramatic event in Dhubri underscores the critical need for continued efforts to eradicate the use of diclofenac in livestock and to protect these vital scavengers, which are an integral part of the region's natural heritage. The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance of the ecosystem and the far-reaching consequences of unchecked veterinary drug use.