Odisha’s Bhitarkanika National Park Reopens After Crocodile Census, Number Increases

Kendrapada: The Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha’s Kendrapada district reopened for tourists on Thursday after being closed for nine days for the crocodile census.

The national park remained closed from January 14 to 22 for the smooth conduct of the census. Sources said the crocodile population in the Bhitarkanika National Park has seen marginal increase this year.

According to Rajnagar Divisional Forest Officer Sudarshan Gopinath Yadav, 1,826 crocodiles were counted during this year’s census, up from 1,811 counted last year.

The three-day crocodile census, conducted from January 19 to 21, was led by senior biologist and researcher Sudhakar Kar.

This year, two more than 20-feet-long crocodiles were spotted near FRH Jetty, and one between Gupti and Hansina. The age of these crocodiles is said to be 100 to 120 years.

In addition, according to the forest department, several crocodiles more than 15-feet-long were spotted near Balipatha, Thanpati, Ganjeikhia, Shuayor, Godharapal, Gumuragaon and Jayanagar-Khola.

More white crocodiles have also been spotted this year. Last year 16 white crocodiles were found and this year their number increased to 20. However, the number of crocodiles of length 6 to 8 feet has decreased, officials said.