Explanation – Vultures play a crucial role in the ecosystem by scavenging on dead animals, which helps to prevent the spread of disease and maintain a balanced food web. Their presence in an ecosystem can indicate a healthy and functioning food chain, where predators and scavengers are able to thrive. India is home to 9 species of Vulture namely the Oriental white-backed, Long-billed, Slender-billed, Himalayan, Red-headed, Egyptian, Bearded, Cinereous and the Eurasian Griffon. Vultures are widely distributed, but they are absent from Australia and most oceanic islands.

Source: Forum IAS