Forest officials rescued a critically endangered White-rumped vulture found weak and grounded at Mampad near Nilambur last week. The sighting surprised both locals and forest staff, as vultures are rarely seen in the area. The rapid response team (RRT) of Nilambur South Division took immediate action. Under the care of Assistant Forest Veterinary Officer Shyam, the bird received treatment for two days. Afterward, the vulture was moved to Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary. There, the Sulthan Bathery RRT monitored it for two more days. Finally, it was released at Kakkappadam, a known hotspot for Kerala's vulture population. Karimpuzha Wildlife Warden Dhanik Lal G. said, "This was the first vulture sighting in Nilambur in recent times." Officials believe the bird might have come from Wayanad, Kerala’s only known vulture habitat, probably searching for food. Vishnu O., a biologist and vulture conservationist at the sanctuary, confirmed, "The bird had no major health issues." Wayanad Wildlife Warden Varun Dalia stated that vultures indicate a healthy forest ecosystem. The region supports a strong population of vultures including White-rumped, Red-headed, and Indian vultures. A 2024 survey recorded 80 vultures in Wayanad Sanctuary, with three-fourths being White-rumped vultures. Mr. Vishnu added that the sanctuary attracts migrant vultures like the Himalayan griffon, Cinereous, and Egyptian vultures. Across the Nilgiri landscape covering Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, about 300 White-rumped vultures were recorded, making it the largest population in India. He noted, "Unlike parts of North India, where vulture numbers declined due to toxic contamination from dumping sites, Wayanad’s vultures largely feed on natural carcasses. Diclofenac poisoning is also far less prevalent here." Globally, the population of White-rumped vultures has fallen sharply from millions in the 1980s to fewer than 6,000 in 2021. Wildlife Assistant Rahul R. said, "With a wingspan of about 2.5 metres, watching this bird soar high in thermals is a remarkable sight." Thermals help vultures fly high effortlessly while searching for food.