Game Species Management and Ecosystem Health: Leveraging Vulture Scavenging to Improve Carcass Disposal and Health Risk Reduction

Abstract

Vultures play a crucial role in ecosystem health by removing carcasses and reducing disease transmission. However, they are a highly vulnerable bird group. This study examines the environmental factors influencing scavenging dynamics in a hunting area in Sierra Madrona, Spain. Deer carcasses were placed in habitats with varying vegetation density and altitude and monitored for 30 days using camera traps. Results indicate that dense vegetation and lower altitudes delay vulture arrival and carcass consumption. These findings provide valuable insights for game management to enhance vulture conservation and promote ecosystem and public health.