Red-headed vulture in nest.

Recent field visit to the Dhorfirdi VDC of Tanahun district and consultation with local confirmed existence of White-rumped vulture (Gyps bengalensis) and Red headed vulture (Sarcogyps calvus) with no research and conservation activities in the area. This site is situated in the Millennium Trekking Route with presence of Dhor Barahi Temple, historical palace and place to view Himalayan range at its north. This project aims to contribute two major outputs set by Vulture Conservation Action Plan (2015-2019), that are increase vulture population through wild breeding and conservation awareness to the local community.

Population status will be determined by direct observation and point method with binoculars and unaided eye within Dhorfirdi VDC. At each habitat, absolute count will be carried out early in the morning 6-10 am and evening 4-6.30 pm (Shrestha and Devkota, 2011). Population count will be conducted from two season’s i.e. once in summer month and next in the winter. Consultation meeting will be conducted with different relevant stakeholders. The meeting will initiate towards developing the site as Vulture Safe Feeding Site (VSFS) where ecotourism can be promoted along with vulture conservation. The project will conduct awareness programs among the local communities including two schools from the project area. There will be two packages on training and workshop activities. First one will be vulture identification and conservation training workshop which will be conducted among participants from tourist guides, pharmacists, representatives from local NGOs and LFUGs. 20 participants from diverse sector representing above listed organizations will be involved in this two days training program. Likewise, second capacity building training will include 10 participants among local people and CFUGs who will actively participate in the next three days training and exposure visit to the nearest vulture restaurant in order to enhance the vulture conservation.

There will be integration of ecotourism and conservation of vultures in the area. Population status will be identified. LFUGs will get exposure about the conservation activities conducted by their neighbouring community and will gain skills about management of vulture safe feeding sites. They will be encouraged and trained for establishment of “home stay” in their village. Tourism sector (instance tourist guide) will get exposure about the project site, develop skill to identify vulture species and contribute by sharing to their visitors about presence of vultures in the site and motivate to support on exposure and conservation of vultures.