Bhitarkanika National Park In Odisha To Remain Closed To Visitors For Crocodile Census

Kendrapada: The Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha’s Kendrapada district will remain closed for the tourists for nine days in January next year for the annual census of saltwater crocodiles.

According to official sources, the National Park will be out of bounds for the visitors from January 14 to 22, 2025. The Forest department will engage as many as 22 teams comprising around 100 people to conduct the counting of the crocodiles.

In order to carry out accurate counting, the department will use soundless boats and enforce the ban on visitors to prevent disturbances.

The teams comprising forest officials, wildlife researchers and trained locals will be involved in the operation. “We will train approximately 100 people with specialised counting methods,” TOI quoted Assistant chief conservator (ACF) Manas Das as saying.

Stating that the census time was suitably selected for accurate counting of the reptiles. Peak winter conditions, exposed mud banks, and favorable lunar cycle are ideal for sighting the crocodiles. The teams will conduct both day and night surveys across the park’s river systems, creeks, and water inlets, he added.

Noted crocodile researcher Dr Sudhakar Kar has been recruited to oversee the census. “We will use modern technology, including GPS for location mapping, thermometers for water temperature measurement, and digital cameras for photographic documentation,” he said.

Total 1,811 crocodiles had been counted in the National Park in the previous census conducted in January 2024, the sources said.