Question

Q. Vultures were very common in the Indian landscape a few years ago, but are rarely seen today. This is due to:

• A. Destruction of nesting grounds by new invading species
• B. Drug used by cattle owners for treating their diseased cattle
• C. Food shortages
• D. Extensive, persistent and Especially deadly illness

Answer 1

The correct option is B Drug used by cattle owners for treating their diseased cattle

Explanation:

• There has been a sharp decline in the population of vultures in the country which has come down from 40 million to 19,000 in a span of over three decades.
• The major cause of mortality of vultures was found to be the veterinary non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug ‘Diclofenac’, given to cattle in pain and inflammation.
• Diclofenac was found to be extremely toxic to vultures and causes renal failure