How Panna brought its vultures back from a 99% population crash

Panna's sandstone landscape, characterized by deep gorges and sheer cliffs, offers ideal nesting and roosting spots for vultures. This environment also supports prey species that form a functioning food chain. Vultures play a vital role in this ecosystem by swiftly consuming carcasses, preventing them from lingering and contaminating the environment.

Madhya Pradesh, known for its 99% decline in vulture populations due to veterinary diclofenac, has seen a remarkable recovery in recent years. In 2025, over 12,981 vultures were recorded, marking a significant milestone in wildlife conservation. The state's dedicated efforts in banning harmful veterinary drugs, protecting habitats, and monitoring populations have contributed to this success.

Panna's geography, with its cliffs and prey species, is crucial for the recovery of both resident and migratory vulture species, which return to the area during the cooler months.