Vultures spotted in Lahore after nearly three decades

In a surprising turn of events, birdwatchers in Lahore were treated to an extraordinary sight as rare Eurasian and Himalayan griffon vultures made a stunning appearance in a local housing society. The avian guests, not seen in the city for almost thirty years, have sparked excitement among wildlife enthusiasts and experts alike, who attribute their unexpected arrival to shifting weather patterns affecting migration routes.

Reported by Express Tribune on Wednesday, the sighting of these elusive vultures has captured the attention of the public and conservationists. Experts speculate that harsh weather conditions in the northern regions, combined with dwindling food sources, prompted the vultures to seek alternative habitats.

The cohabitation of these two distinct vulture species in the southwestern region of Lahore has left observers enthralled. Fahad Malik, a leading wildlife activist and head of the Mission Awareness Foundation, highlighted the significance of this event, noting the vultures’ prolonged absence from the city. Despite briefly settling in the area, the vultures were eventually compelled to take flight once again, as local crows and kites asserted dominance over the territory.

The reappearance of these vultures holds particular importance for Punjab, where sightings have been scarce for decades. In 2005, the Punjab Wildlife Department, in collaboration with the World Wide Fund for Nature, established a conservation center in the Changa Manga area aimed at restoring vulture populations. While the center reported commendable success in breeding efforts in 2015, concerns persist regarding the suitability of their natural habitat.

Experts remain cautious about reintroducing the vultures into the wild, fearing that without adequate protection and suitable environments, their survival may be jeopardized. As discussions continue on how best to ensure the vultures’ welfare, their unexpected visit to Lahore serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between human development and the preservation of biodiversity.