Mass Poisoning Kills 123 Vultures in Kruger National Park

A major wildlife crisis unfolded in South Africa's Kruger National Park when 123 vultures died after feeding on an elephant carcass poisoned by poachers using agricultural pesticides, while an additional 83-84 vultures were rescued and are undergoing treatment. This event, described as one of the worst mass vulture poisonings in the park's history, highlights an escalating trend of poachers using toxic substances to target wildlife for the illegal trade in animal parts. The incident severely impacted several endangered and critically endangered vulture species, such as the Cape, lappet-faced, white-backed, and hooded vultures, underscoring their vulnerability to poisoning. Rapid response by park rangers, conservation groups, and veterinary teams, aided by aerial support and specialized vulture ambulances, was crucial in saving many affected birds. The poisoning was detected early by a wildlife surveillance system, enabling a coordinated rescue effort that employed emergency treatments and rapid transport. Conservationists warn that such poisonings pose a dire threat to the region's ecosystem and vulture populations, already facing significant pressures.