CROCODILE CONSERVATION PROJECT

Introduction to the Crocodile Conservation Project

India initiated the Crocodile Conservation Project in 1975.
The project began in Bhitarkanika National Park, located in Odisha.
It was launched with assistance from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
The primary objective was to protect and conserve the saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), which was facing the threat of extinction.

Bhitarkanika National Park is situated in the Kendrapara district of Odisha.
It is recognized as a Ramsar Site, signifying its importance as a wetland of international importance.
The park encompasses a network of mangrove forests, creeks, and estuaries, making it a unique ecosystem.
It serves as the second-largest mangrove ecosystem in India, following the Sundarbans.
The park is nourished by the waters of the Brahmani, Baitarani, Dhamra, and Patasala rivers.
Bhitarkanika is home to the largest population of saltwater crocodiles in India.

The saltwater crocodile is the largest living reptile species.
They inhabit coastal regions, estuaries, and mangrove swamps.
Saltwater crocodiles are known for their aggressive nature and territorial behaviour.
They are apex predators, playing a crucial role in maintaining the health of their ecosystems.
The species is listed as 'Least Concern' by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

In 1975, the saltwater crocodile population in Bhitarkanika was estimated at 95 individuals.
By 2025, the population had increased to 1,826 crocodiles, marking a significant recovery.
The annual reptile census is conducted to monitor the population and health of the crocodiles.
The census in January 2025 recorded:
- 585 hatchlings (up to 2 feet)
- 403 yearlings (2–3 feet)
- 328 juveniles (3–6 feet)
- 164 sub-adults (6–8 feet)
- 346 adults (over 8 feet)
The presence of 18 albino crocodiles was also noted during the 2025 census.

The Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) is another critically endangered crocodilian species found in India.
Gharials primarily inhabit the Chambal, Girwa, Ghagra, Son, and Gandak rivers.
They are characterized by their long, narrow snouts and are primarily fish-eaters.
Conservation efforts for gharials include habitat protection and breeding programs.
The species is listed as 'Critically Endangered' by the IUCN.

Despite conservation efforts, human-crocodile conflicts have been reported.
In the past three years, 26 human fatalities due to crocodile attacks were recorded in Bhitarkanika.
During the same period, 10 crocodile carcasses were found in the area.
Illegal fishing remains a significant threat, despite a fishing ban in the park's waters.
A four-year-old male saltwater crocodile was found dead in the Kochia River near Silapokhari village, marking the 14th unnatural crocodile death in the past five years.

The breeding program for saltwater crocodiles was discontinued in 2024 due to population saturation.
However, the Dangamal breeding complex remains operational for tourism and research purposes.
Barricades have been erected at 120 river ghats to prevent human-crocodile interactions.
Awareness campaigns are conducted to educate local communities about crocodile conservation and safety measures.
Continuous monitoring and research are essential to address emerging challenges and ensure the long-term survival of crocodile populations in India.