The Remarkable Conservation Journey of Sujangarh Tal Chhapar Sanctuary

Rajasthan, known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse ecosystems, has also gained prominence for its conservation efforts aimed at preserving the region's flora and fauna.

- SHAILENDRA LATTA

Rajasthan, known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse ecosystems, has also gained prominence for its conservation efforts aimed at preserving the region's flora and fauna. Among these conservation initiatives, the state's bird sanctuaries have played a critical role in safeguarding the natural environment, ensuring that Rajasthan maintains its place on the global map as a key region for biodiversity.

The Sujangarh Tal Chhapar Sanctuary, nestled in the Churu district, is one such vital sanctuary that has contributed significantly to the protection of endangered species, particularly vultures.

The sanctuary has not only become a haven for these majestic birds but also holds a significant place in the history of wildlife preservation in India. It stands as a testament to the remarkable recovery of vulture populations, which had once faced the brink of extinction.

The concerted efforts over the last four decades to conserve vultures have started yielding results, and the Tal Chhapar Sanctuary has become a focal point for these efforts. Today, flocks of vultures from distant lands are once again returning to the sanctuary, signaling the success of these initiatives.

The Vulture Crisis: A Species on the Brink of Extinction

Vultures have long been regarded as nature's cleanup crew. These birds play a crucial ecological role by feeding on dead animals, thus preventing the spread of diseases. However, the vulture population in India, and globally, faced a catastrophic decline in the 1990s, primarily due to the use of diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly administered to livestock.

When vultures consumed the carcasses of animals treated with diclofenac, the drug poisoned them, leading to kidney failure and death.