Number of Crocodiles in Bhitarkanika goes up by 16

The number of estuarine crocodile at the Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha has gone up by 16 this year to take the count to 1,665. It’s seen as a welcome development in the wildlife and aquatic circle of Odisha.

In addition, the number of migratory birds in the sanctuary, has also risen by 44,712 to 1,13,226. The census was held from January 1 till January 12. The park remained closed for the tourists during that period. It reopened only on January 13.

Spread over 672 sq. km, Bhitarkanika has been designated as a National Park since 1998. The national park is surrounded by the Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary. Gahirmatha Beach and Marine Sanctuary lies to the east, and separates mangroves from the Bay of Bengal. Located in Kendrapara district, the national park and wildlife sanctuary is inundated by a number of rivers – Brahmani, Baitarni, Dhamra, Pathsala and others.