Kendrapada: The annual crocodile census at Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha’s Kendrapda district has recorded a rise in population. Forest department officials confirmed that the saltwater crocodile count has increased by 32 compared to last year, bringing the total to 1,858.
This marks a steady growth in the reptile population at India’s second-largest mangrove ecosystem, according to information released on Monday.
The Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department said the latest census revealed 1,858 saltwater crocodiles inhabiting Bhitarkanika National Park. This is up from 1,826 recorded last year, reflecting a modest but significant increase in the population.
The census was carried out by trained forest personnel and wildlife experts, who undertook a systematic survey across creeks, rivers, and mangrove swamps. Officials attribute the rise in numbers to consistent conservation measures, including strict protection of nesting habitats, curbs on poaching, and awareness campaigns among local communities.
Bhitarkanika, designated as a Ramsar wetland site, has long been recognized as a critical habitat for saltwater crocodiles, which are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. The park also serves as a breeding ground for these reptiles, with nesting activity peaking during the monsoon season. To ensure accuracy in counting, the park was closed to tourists from January 8 to 10, allowing uninterrupted monitoring of crocodile habitats.
Forest officials explained that human activity during the census could disturb the reptiles and affect the reliability of data collection. Bhitarkanika’s thriving crocodile population underscores the ecological richness of the mangrove ecosystem.
