Vultures were not immediately killed after consuming the contaminated carcasses; instead, they experienced delayed toxic effects over time, leading to population declines.
The population of some vulture species, like the Indian vulture (Gyps indicus), the white-rumped vulture (Gyps bengalensis), and the slender-billed vulture (Gyps tenuirostris), declined drastically by over 95% in a short period.
The decline of vultures had severe ecological consequences, as unchecked carcasses led to an increase in feral dog populations and the spread of diseases like anthrax and botulism.
After understanding the link between NSAIDs and vulture decline, India, Nepal, and Pakistan implemented a ban on the veterinary use of diclofenac and other toxic NSAIDs in 2006 to protect vultures.
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