Bhubaneswar, December 17: The Bhitarkanika National Park will remain closed to tourists for eight days, starting January 14, 2024, to facilitate the status survey of estuarine crocodiles within the park. Gopinath Sudarshan Jadav, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the Rajnagar Mangrove (Forest) and Wildlife Division, announced the closure, stating that the restriction aims to minimize noise pollution and ensure a smooth, tranquil environment for the census.
The saltwater crocodile headcount will be supervised by noted crocodile researcher Dr. Sudhakar Kar, alongside the DFO of the Rajnagar Mangrove (Forest) and Wildlife Division. Technical experts from the Wildlife Headquarters will monitor and oversee the day-and-night census operation. Enumerators, supported by trained local forest staff, will comprehensively cover the Bhitarkanika river system, its creeks, and water inlets during the survey.
Due to their amphibious nature, saltwater crocodiles can be directly counted both on land, where they bask on riverbanks, and on water surfaces while floating.
Daytime Count: Crocodiles basking on land are easier to spot, allowing enumerators to estimate their size class with higher accuracy.
Nighttime Count: Smaller crocodiles, particularly those under six feet, are counted using spotlights as their eyes reflect a distinct "ruby red" glow.
However, a complete headcount remains challenging as some crocodiles stay submerged and invisible during both day and night surveys.
Technology Integration:
For this census, Bhitarkanika authorities will use a combination of traditional methods and a technology-driven mobile application leveraging the polygon search method to estimate crocodile density. Manas Kumar Das, Ranger of the Kanika Forest Range, highlighted this addition as a means to improve accuracy and efficiency.
Previous Census Results:
Last year, the official headcount identified 1,811 estuarine crocodiles in and around the water bodies of the Rajnagar Mangrove Forest Division (Wildlife), reflecting the success of ongoing conservation efforts.
The annual crocodile census in Bhitarkanika plays a crucial role in monitoring and protecting the population of these unique reptiles, ensuring the park continues to serve as a safe haven for them.
