In Search of Vultures: A Day of Raptor Surveying Across Rajgir and Gaya, Bihar
As part of the Vulture Count Programme organised by WWF-India and Bird Count India, our team undertook a full-day bird survey from the forested hills of Rajgir to the open natural ecosystems and rocky landscapes of Gaya, Bihar. The objective was to explore potential vulture habitats and document observations that could contribute to understanding their distribution across the region. The survey team comprised Shivnath Kumar, Sameer Raj, Pradip Kumar, Anurag Kumar, Avinash Kumar, and Diwakar Kumar. Intermittent spells of rain continued throughout the day, adding challenges to our fieldwork. Nevertheless, we persisted in scanning hill slopes, forest edges, rocky outcrops, and open landscapes in search of vultures.
Although no vultures were recorded, the day offered several remarkable raptor sightings, including Bonelli’s Eagles, Short-toed Snake Eagles, Black-winged Kites, and Black Kites. Among the memorable experiences was an intriguing wildlife encounter that felt like a scene straight out of "The Jungle Book" a Bonelli’s Eagle appearing to mock a Golden Jackal accompanied by its pups. This unusual interaction captured the unpredictable character of wildlife and offered a compelling reminder of the fascinating behaviours and interspecies encounters that make field observations so rewarding.
Despite the absence of our target species, the survey was far from unproductive. Non-detection does not establish species absence; rather, it reinforces the need for repeated monitoring, systematic documentation, and continued exploration of potentially suitable habitats. Every field expedition contributes to a broader understanding of local biodiversity, even when the anticipated sighting remains elusive.
From the rugged hills of Rajgir to the open landscapes of Gaya, the day brought together scientific observation, persistence, and memorable wildlife encounters. We returned without a vulture sighting, but with valuable raptor observations and another meaningful experience contributing to bird monitoring and conservation in Bihar.
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