Himalayan Griffon: Habitat, Ecology and Conservation

Category: Environment & Biodiversity

  • Scientific name: Gyps himalayensis.
  • A large Old World vulture found in the Himalayan and adjoining mountain regions.
  • It belongs to the family Accipitridae.
  • It is primarily a scavenger, feeding on carcasses.
  • Plays an important ecological role by helping remove animal remains.
  • Found in high-altitude mountainous habitats.
  • Threats to vultures can include food contamination, habitat disturbance and poisoning.
  • UPSC Focus: Himalayan biodiversity, vultures, scavengers, ecosystem services.