The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) is preparing to release 10 Himalayan griffon vultures back into the wild in April after completing health rehabilitation. The birds, which became separated from their migration routes, have been undergoing recovery and behavioural monitoring at a rehabilitation enclosure in Uthai Thani province.
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Mr Sukhee Boonsang, director of the Wildlife Conservation Office, said that wildlife breeding teams had conducted detailed health examinations on the vultures. The work involved cooperation between wildlife breeding specialists, Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Breeding Station and the Wildlife Conservation Division of Protected Area Administration Office 12 in Nakhon Sawan.
The vultures were rescued from several provinces across Thailand between late 2025 and early 2026. Most were discovered weak or exhausted after long-distance migration, prompting authorities and local residents to alert wildlife officials.
The birds were found in multiple locations, including Phang Nga, Phuket, Nakhon Sawan, Tak, Trang, Satun and Prachin Buri provinces. Each bird was taken into care after being assessed as unable to continue migration.
Veterinary teams have since carried out a comprehensive series of health checks. These included weighing the birds, conducting physical examinations, attaching identification markers, measuring body dimensions and collecting biological data.
Samples have also been sent for laboratory analysis to screen for infectious diseases. According to officials, the birds were given vitamins and necessary medication to ensure they regain full strength before returning to the wild.
Mr Sukhee said the primary goal of the programme is to restore the birds’ ability to survive independently in nature. He added that officials are now seeking approval to release the vultures in Mae Wong National Park.
Authorities believe April 2026 is the most suitable time for the release, as it coincides with the seasonal migration period when the birds normally return to their native habitats. The Himalayan griffon vulture typically migrates across Asia, including areas of China and Mongolia.
Daily News reported that if approval is granted, the birds will be released back into the wild skies of Mae Wong National Park in Nakhon Sawan province. Officials hope the restored vultures will successfully rejoin migration routes and return to their natural range.
Pictures courtesy of Daily News
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 15 Mar 2026