Bangladesh Connection? Endangered Vulture With ‘Dhaka’ Ring Tied To It Causes Stir in Jharkhand

OB Bureau

August 16, 2024 12:26 pm

Representational image.

New Delhi: A vulture, belonging to an endangered species, was spotted near the Konar Dam in the Hazaribagh district of Jharkhand. It has attracted attention, not because of what it is but due to peculiar markings and a message attached to it.

It has a ring tied to one of its legs with the name of Bangladesh’s capital Dhaka written on it. What is more, a tracking device has also been found with it. The vulture, with distinctive white feathers on its neck, was spotted on Monday by local fishermen who promptly notified forest and police officials, News18 reported.

Upon examination, authorities found that the bird was wearing a ring with the inscription “GPOBOX-2624, Dhaka, B67,” and was equipped with a tracking device. Additionally, a note was discovered on the bird, stating, “If found, please contact John.Malot@rspb.org.uk.”

The presence of the tracking device and the message has prompted a thorough investigation. Vishnugarh Sub-Divisional Police Officer BN Prasad said that the vulture falls under Schedule 1 of endangered species, the report added.

Prasad speculated that the bird might have been released by John Malot, a researcher affiliated with the British organisation, Royal Society for Protection of Birds (RSPB) based in Dhaka. The purpose of the tracking device and solar radio collar appears to be to monitor the bird’s movements.

The forest officials have taken the vulture for treatment and will keep it under observation. The police have ruled out any connection between the vulture’s presence and recent unrest in Bangladesh. There is no indication of foul play at this time, though the investigation continues, they were quoted as saying in the report.