Reptile Census at Bhitarkanika National Park

• 25 Jan 2025

Source: DTE 

Why in News? 

The annual reptile census at Bhitarkanika National Park (BNP) has revealed that saltwater crocodiles in BNP stands at 1,826 in 2025, including 18 albino crocodiles (rare white crocodiles).

Note: The census was conducted using the Timestamp Camera App to record video with time watermarks and GPS, improving accuracy and minimizing human error. 

What is the Crocodile Conservation Project? 

• About: It was started in 1975 at Bhitarkanika National Park, Odisha, to protect and conserve the population of three endangered species of crocodiles i.e., Mugger, Gharial, and Saltwater Crocodile. 
• Goals: It was started to increase the population so that 5 to 6 crocodiles could be sighted per kilometer of water. 
• Objectives: 
  • Protection: To protect the remaining populations of crocodiles in their natural habitats by creating sanctuaries. 
  • Rebuilding Populations: Using a 'grow and release' or 'rear and release' approach through egg collection, incubation, rearing, release and monitoring. 
  • Personnel Training: Training personnel at project sites and the Central Crocodile Breeding and Management Institute, Hyderabad. 
• Implementation: The project was initiated with assistance from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). 
  • Important crocodile conservation sanctuaries include: 
  • Bhitarkanika National Park (Odisha) for saltwater crocodiles. 
  • National Chambal Sanctuary (spanning Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh) for gharials. 
• Achievement: Since the 1975 launch of the Crocodile Conservation Project, the saltwater crocodile population has steadily risen. 
  • The crocodile breeding program in the park was stopped in 2024 due to population saturation, but eggs are still collected annually and bred for tourists. 

 

What are Key Facts About BNP? 

• About: Located in Odisha, BNP is India's 2nd largest mangrove ecosystem, after the Sunderbans. 
  • Recognized as a Ramsar Site, it is a significant wetland of international importance. 
• Ecosystem: BNP comprises a network of creeks and canals, fed by waters from the Brahmani, Baitarani, Dhamra, and Patasala rivers, creating a unique ecosystem. 
  • Proximity to the Bay of Bengal enriches the soil with salts, supporting tropical and subtropical intertidal vegetation. 
• Fauna: It is home to the largest congregation of saltwater crocodiles in India. Other notable species include water monitor lizards, pythons, and hyenas. 
• Key Features:  
  • Gahirmatha Beach: Located in BNP, it is the largest nesting site for Olive Ridley Sea Turtles. 
  • Bagagahana (Heronry): Near the Surajpore creek, thousands of birds nest and perform aerial acrobatics before mating, creating an impressive spectacle. 

UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question: 

Prelims

Q. If you want to see gharials in their natural habitat, which one of the following is the best place to visit? (2017) 

(a) Bhitarkanika Mangroves 

(b) Chambal River 

(c) Pulicat Lake 

(d) Deepor Beel 

Ans: (b)

Q. Consider the following pairs: (2010)

 Protected area              Well-known for 

1. Bhitarkanika, Orissa: Salt Water Crocodile
2. Desert National Park, Rajasthan: Great Indian Bustard
3. Eravikulam, Kerala : Hoolak Gibbon

Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched? 

(a) 1 only  

(b) 1 and 2 only 

(c) 2 only  

(d) 1, 2 and 3 

Ans: (b)