Watch: Himalayan Griffon Vultures return to Udhampur Hills, reviving local ecosystem

Himalayan Griffon vultures to migrate to nearby hills in Udhampur. (Image: ANI)

• Thick fog in Udhampur triggered migration of Himalayan Griffon vultures to hills.
• Vultures boost local ecosystem by cleaning carcasses and supporting biodiversity.
• Rare migration signals positive ecological change, say scientists.

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Udhampur woke up to thick, heavy fog today. The visibility dropped sharply in lower areas of the city. Commuters faced delays and slower traffic on major roads. The mist created an eerie, almost otherworldly landscape. But this is not just weather, it is science in action.

But the fog triggered an unexpected natural phenomenon. Vultures have started migrating to the nearby hilly regions. Scientists say this movement is boosting the local ecosystem.

Where are these vultures seen? 

Large flocks of Himalayan Griffon vultures have been seen. They were observed in the Siwalik ranges and forested hills around Udhampur. The birds are soaring above valleys in search of food. Their migration to higher altitudes is clearly visible during fog. The hills provide safety and open vantage points for hunting.

Fog Drives Birds to Higher Ground

Dense mist makes low-lying areas cooler and humid. Vultures prefer higher altitudes during foggy conditions. They leave the plains and settle in safer hills. The migration helps them search for food more efficiently. Hilly forests provide shelter and vantage points for hunting.

#WATCH | Udhampur, J&K: Due to fog and mist in the lower areas, the migration of vultures to the hilly regions is boosting the ecosystem. pic.twitter.com/JRvCbwhkD7

— ANI (@ANI) January 11, 2026

Locals Welcome the Visitors

Villagers and forest natives noticed the sudden movement. Many called it a “blessing for nature” and wildlife. Farmers said the vultures help clean carcasses quickly. Tourists also captured images of the soaring giant birds. Locals feel pride in seeing the ecosystem come alive.

Has This Happened Before?

Seasonal vulture movement is common in hilly regions. But such concentrated migration triggered by winter fog is rare. Scientists said this year’s fog created perfect conditions. Similar patterns have been recorded only a few times before. The intensity of the fog and timing seem unique this season.

How Vultures Benefit the Environment?

Vultures act as nature’s cleanup crew. They feed on carcasses, preventing the spread of disease. Their migration disperses nutrients across different regions. Scavenger activity supports soil health and forest biodiversity. Ecosystem balance improves when vultures thrive naturally.

How Scientists See This Change?

Experts call it a positive ecological signal. It shows how wildlife adapts to seasonal changes naturally. The movement disperses nutrients and supports forest biodiversity. It may also influence conservation strategies for endangered scavengers. Researchers are studying the pattern to predict future ecosystem shifts.