Context:
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.
Saltwater Crocodiles: Giants of the Estuaries in India’s Bhitarkanika and Beyond
- Scientific name: Crocodylus porosus
- Protection Status:
- IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern
- CITES: Appendix I
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I
- They are the largest crocodile species on the planet, with individuals that are 8-10m long.
- Saltwater Crocodiles in India:
- Bhitarkanika National Park
- Sundarbans
- Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- Habitat: Typically found in the brackish water of estuaries.
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- 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
15 Jan 2024
