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There are 1,811 saltwater crocodiles in Odisha’s Bhitarkanika, the annual census reveals.

Annual Census Reveals Marginal Increase in Bhitarkanika’s Crocodile Population

• The annual  census is being conducted in January as it  is  a suitable time to count the animals because of peak winter, exposure of more than 50 per cent of mud banks and the lunar cycle.
• The presence of 1,811 crocodiles in the park is a marginal increase from last year’s census numbered at 1,793.

Bhitarkanika National Park: A Coastal Marvel in Odisha’s Estuarial Landscape

• Location: District Kendrapara,  Odisha
•  It is surrounded by Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary,  Gahirmatha Beach and Marine Sanctuary. 
  • It lies in the estuarial region of Brahmani-Baitrani with Bay of Bengal lying in the East
• Ramsar site:  It is Ramsar site since 19 August 2002 and is Second site from state of Odisha after the Chilika Lake.
• Rivers:  Brahmani, Baitarani, Dhamra, and Pathsala.

• Bhitarkanika is the second-largest mangrove forest ecosystem  in India after the Sundarbans in West BengaI.
• Fauna:  Saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), Indian python, king cobra, black ibis, darter etc.  Olive ridley turtles nest on Gahirmatha and other nearby beaches. 
• Unique features: 
  • All the 3 species of crocodiles ie. Gharial ( critically endangered), Mugger crocodile (vulnerable) and Saltwater crocodile are found in the Bhitarkanika national park.
  • Bagagahana or the heronry near Surajpore creek: Here Thousands of birds colonise the creek for nesting and perform  aerial acrobatics  prior to mating making  for an impressive sight.

News source: Down to Earth