Conservationists have reported that over 150 critically-endangered vultures have been poisoned to death in separate incidents in Botswana and South Africa. The killings have pushed these birds closer to extinction, adding to the threat they already face from habitat loss and other human activities. Vulture poisoning is a common occurrence in wildlife-rich southern Africa, where poachers target them to avoid drawing unwanted attention to their illegal activities.
Additionally, the birds' heads are used in traditional medicine, according to wildlife groups.
The latest incidents occurred when more than 50 white-backed vultures were found dead in Botswana's northern Chobe district on Friday, while approximately 100 more were discovered in South Africa's Kruger National Park on Thursday, according to vulture conservation group Vulpro. In both cases, the birds died after feeding on the carcass of a buffalo that appeared to have been laced with poison, said Vulpro's founder, Kerri Wolter.
"What makes this even more catastrophic is that it's breeding season," she added.
Park officials in South Africa have launched an investigation into the incident and have stated that some of the carcasses appeared to have been harvested for their body parts.
These incidents highlight the need for more effective measures to protect these vulnerable birds, including stricter laws against wildlife poisoning and greater public awareness about the importance of conserving these vital members of the ecosystem. We must take immediate action to prevent further loss of these magnificent creatures and ensure their survival for generations to come.
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