Study of coexistence pattern and molecular identification tool of the ecologically valued vulture species Family Accipitridae in Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve Tamil Nadu

Abstract

Bird of prey are a diverse group of birds distributed across many habitats in the newlineworld. These are referred to as raptors , the word derived from the latin word rapio which newlinemeans to seize or to take by force. To have the feed by force, these raptors possess excellent newlineeyesight, sturdy feet and a beak which is strong and curved enough to hold and tear flesh newline(Perrins et al., 1984). The unique feature of these birds are broad and long wings enabling newlinethem to soar for a long distance. Among the raptors, vultures are a distinctive species newlinecategorised as medium to large-sized raptors. Vultures feed only or mainly on the carcasses newlineand provide an invaluable ecosystem service by scavenging. The word vulture unfolds the newlinefeeding behaviour of these species as it is derived from the Latin word vellere which newlinemeans plucking or tearing . Such specialised vultures are referred even in Egyptian and newlineIndian mythology, which are now on the verge of extinction newline