Increase in Saltwater Crocodile Population in Odisha

Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha has reported a slight increase in its saltwater crocodile population in 2025. The recent census revealed a count of 1,826 crocodiles, up from 1,811 in 2024. This survey was conducted from January 19 to 21 under the supervision of Sudhakar Kar, a prominent herpetologist. The innovative use of the Timestamp Camera App facilitated accurate documentation of the crocodiles, enhancing the reliability of the census data.

Census Methodology

The census involved both day and night surveys. Enumerators used spotlights to count crocodiles at night. The Timestamp Camera App played important role in recording video evidence with precise time stamps. This technology allowed for geotagging and reduced human error during the counting process. The survey team comprised 22 members, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the park’s waterways.

Population Breakdown

The census recorded various age groups of crocodiles:

• 585 hatchlings (two feet long)
• 403 yearlings (two to three feet)
• 328 juveniles (three to six feet)
• 164 sub-adults (six to eight feet)
• 346 adults (over eight feet)

In comparison to 2024, there was an increase in hatchlings, yearlings, and juveniles, while sub-adult and adult numbers remained stable.

Historical Context

The census data shows a steady increase in the crocodile population over the years. The population has risen from 1,192 in 2000 to 1,826 in 2025. This growth indicates successful conservation efforts and suggests a healthy ecosystem within Bhitarkanika National Park.

Human-Crocodile Conflict

Despite the positive growth in crocodile numbers, there are concerns regarding human-crocodile conflict. Approximately 608 of the 1,826 crocodiles are deemed capable of attacking humans. The forest department has taken preventive measures, including erecting barricades around 120 river ghats to protect local communities. Warnings have been issued to riverside villagers to avoid entering crocodile habitats.

Conservation Efforts

The forest department ceased its crocodile breeding and rearing programme in 2024 due to population saturation. However, they continue to collect eggs annually for breeding in a complex at Dangamal, aimed at promoting ecotourism. This strategy balances conservation with local economic benefits.

Future Challenges

Continued monitoring and management strategies will be essential to address the growing crocodile population and mitigate human-wildlife conflicts. The park’s vast swampy terrain presents unique challenges for both conservationists and local communities.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the impact of technological advancements on wildlife census methodologies.
2. Critically discuss the implications of increasing saltwater crocodile populations on local ecosystems.
3. Estimate the effectiveness of conservation strategies in Bhitarkanika National Park over the last two decades.
4. Point out the measures taken to mitigate human-wildlife conflict in Odisha’s coastal regions.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the impact of technological advancements on wildlife census methodologies.

1. Use of Timestamp Camera App has improved accuracy in recording data, reducing human error.
2. Geotagging capabilities allow for precise location tracking of species during surveys.
3. Day and night surveys enhance visibility and counting efficiency of wildlife.
4. Integration of GPS technology aids in better mapping and monitoring of habitats.
5. Technological tools facilitate comprehensive data collection, enabling better analysis and reporting.

2. Critically discuss the implications of increasing saltwater crocodile populations on local ecosystems.

1. Higher crocodile populations can indicate a healthy ecosystem and balanced food web.
2. Increased predation pressure may affect populations of fish and other aquatic species.
3. Potential for human-crocodile conflicts, impacting local communities and safety.
4. Influence on habitat dynamics, as crocodiles play a role in shaping wetland environments.
5. Conservation success may lead to increased ecotourism opportunities, benefiting local economies.

3. Estimate the effectiveness of conservation strategies in Bhitarkanika National Park over the last two decades.

1. Population growth from 1,192 in 2000 to 1,826 in 2025 indicates successful conservation efforts.
2. Implementation of breeding programs and habitat protection has contributed to population stability.
3. Regular monitoring and census surveys reflect ongoing commitment to wildlife management.
4. Community engagement in conservation strategies helps mitigate human-wildlife conflicts.
5. Establishment of protective measures, like barricades, shows proactive management of risks.

4. Point out the measures taken to mitigate human-wildlife conflict in Odisha’s coastal regions.

1. Forest officials erected barricades around 120 river ghats to deter crocodile attacks.
2. Warnings issued to villages near water bodies to prevent human intrusion into crocodile habitats.
3. Community awareness programs educate locals about safety measures regarding crocodiles.
4. Monitoring of crocodile movements helps predict and manage potential conflict zones.
5. Collaboration with local stakeholders encourages a shared responsibility for wildlife conservation.