A new colony of White-backed Vulture, a Critically
Endangered species was found in Pokhedanda Pine forest of Argha VDC -9,
Arghakhanchi district on 21st May, 2010. The colony lies at an average
elevation of 1207m and all nests are on the trunks of Pinus roxburghii tree.
Altogether 13 nests of this species were recorded among which, 7 nests were
occupied with chick. Additionally, around 7 Egyptian Vulture (Endangered) nests
were located in the area. The colony was found by a team of Anand Chaudhary
(Vulture Conservation Officer), Khadananda Paudel (Field Biologist) and Krishna
Bhusal (M. Sc. Student). Mr. Bhusal has won Jatayu Scholarship to study
Himalayan Griffon colony in Ghera Bheer of Argakhachi, close to the newly
discovered colony. There are 33 nests in Ghera Bheer, which includes 2 Bearded
Vulture nests. Additionally, 2 Red Headed Vultures (Critically Endangered) were
also discovered during the study, further stressing the importance of this area
for vulture conservation.