Gyps tenuirostris

The Slender-billed Vulture is a large scavenging bird distinguished by its relatively narrow bill compared to other Gyps vultures. Adults measure approximately 80-95 cm in length with dark brown plumage and a distinctive bare head and neck. These vultures play a crucial ecological role as nature's cleanup crew, consuming carrion and preventing disease spread through decomposing carcasses.

This species historically ranged across South and Southeast Asia, from the Indian subcontinent through Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, and Bangladesh. They typically inhabit lowland areas, foraging in open grasslands and agricultural landscapes while roosting and nesting in tall trees along rivers and wetlands.

The Slender-billed Vulture faces severe population decline primarily due to diclofenac poisoning. This veterinary anti-inflammatory drug, widely used in livestock treatment, proves fatal to vultures when they consume carcasses of treated animals. The drug causes kidney failure and death within days. Habitat loss from agricultural expansion and reduced availability of wild ungulate carcasses further compound survival challenges.

Conservation efforts focus on banning diclofenac use in veterinary applications across the species' range, though enforcement remains inconsistent. Captive breeding programs operate in India and other countries to maintain genetic diversity and potentially supplement wild populations. Alternative vulture-safe veterinary drugs like meloxicam are being promoted among livestock farmers.

The species' outlook remains precarious despite conservation interventions. Population recovery will require sustained elimination of diclofenac from the food chain and continued habitat protection. Without comprehensive regional cooperation, this ecologically vital species faces potential extinction within decades.