Vulture population in Katni district rises to 401: Summer census

The Forest Department in Katni district recently completed its summer vulture census. The count was conducted across three key areas of the Katni forest division — Katni, Vijayraghavgarh, and Rithi. According to the census, a total of 401 vultures now exist in the district. The highest concentration was found in the Vijayraghavgarh region, where 353 vultures were recorded. Katni region reported 39 vultures, while Rithi region had 9. The count includes 298 adult and 103 juvenile vultures.

The census also revealed that there are 166 nests in the district, with 147 of these located in Vijayraghavgarh alone. According to the Forest Department, the increasing vulture population is a positive indicator for the environment. The previous census conducted in February 2025 had recorded 382 vultures, whereas this time 401 vultures were found, marking an increase of 19 birds.

Two vulture species are found in Katni district—the white vulture and the indigenous species 'Indian Long-billed Vulture.' The highest growth has been observed in the Vijayraghavgarh region. The main reasons cited for this increase are the lush green forests in the area, a safe and favorable environment, and the conservation efforts regularly undertaken by the Forest Department.

The census process was well-organized. It was conducted between 7 and 8 AM when vultures are typically found in their nests. Department staff were deployed to different areas for the count. The vulture numbers were recorded at three different levels—at the range office, division office, and headquarters in Bhopal—both on the relevant online portal and at the departmental level.

The Forest Department has clarified that this year they are conducting the census twice—once in February and again on April 29 during the summer. The objective is to determine the number of vultures that permanently reside in Katni district.

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