Bhubaneswar, Jan 6: A three-day crocodile census operation commenced on Monday in the Mahanadi River and other water bodies within the Satkosia wildlife area of Odisha’s Angul district. Organized by the Forest Department, the census aims to accurately count the crocodile population in this vital ecosystem, running from January 6 to January 8.
To facilitate this crucial exercise, the Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary will be closed to tourists and fishermen throughout the census period. Additionally, boating activities in the Mahanadi River will be suspended until the morning of January 9 to ensure safety and minimize disturbances during the counting process.
A total of 14 teams from the Forest Department have been assembled for the census, with each sector staffed by five employees, bringing the total personnel involved to 70. According to Saroj Panda, the Satkosia Wildlife Division Officer, this annual census is typically conducted during the winter months when crocodiles emerge from the water to bask in the sun along the riverbanks.
Using binoculars and cameras, Forest Department personnel will systematically count the crocodiles from small boats or specially designed canoes, contributing valuable data for conservation efforts in the region.
Crocodile census underway in Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary
