Bhitarkanika National Park Records Rise in Estuarine Crocodile Population

Kendrapara, January 22, 2025

The population of estuarine crocodiles in Bhitarkanika National Park has witnessed an increase, as per the latest status survey conducted from January 19 to 21, 2025. According to Gopinath Sudarshan Jadav, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the Rajnagar Mangrove Forest Wildlife Division, 1,826 estuarine crocodiles were counted during the headcount drive, marking an increase of 15 from last year’s count of 1,811.

The survey revealed detailed classifications of the crocodiles based on their size:

• 585 hatchlings (measuring below 2 feet)
• 403 yearlings (measuring between 2-3 feet)
• 328 juveniles (measuring between 3-6 feet)
• 164 sub-adults (measuring between 6-8 feet)
• 346 adults

The headcount was conducted by 22 teams comprising wildlife personnel, crocodile experts, and researchers, who carried out the survey in and around the water bodies of the Rajnagar Mangrove Forest Division (Wildlife).

This consistent increase in crocodile numbers highlights the success of conservation efforts in Bhitarkanika National Park, which is one of the largest habitats for estuarine crocodiles in India. The park’s thriving mangrove ecosystem plays a pivotal role in providing a natural habitat for these reptiles.

The DFO commended the efforts of the enumerators and reiterated the importance of ongoing conservation measures to maintain the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem.