Rare sighting of Himalayan vulture in Singapore, viral video shows it was struggling to fly near ECP

In response to queries from CNA, chief executive officer Kalai Vanan Balakrishnan of the non-governmental organisation Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (ACRES) said that it received a call about a distressed large bird, which was struggling after being stranded in a canal and along the ECP.

A rescue team led by three volunteers was deployed and safely rescued the male bird, later identified as a Himalayan vulture, Mr Kalai added. It is now under the care of ACRES’ veterinary team. 

“Dehydration, overall weakness and overall exhaustion from the long voyage seem to be the initial diagnosis,” Mr Kalai told CNA.

“We are still assessing it and hope to fully rehabilitate the large bird for release in the near future.”

The website of the Bird Society of Singapore states that Himalayan vultures are migratory and are usually spotted in this region between late December and early January. 

Most Himalayan vulture sightings here have been recorded in the central and western parts of the island, with fewer sightings in the north and east.