Bhitarkanika National Park Launches Annual Crocodile Census Amid Debate Over Technology Use

Forest officials in Odisha’s Bhitarkanika National Park have commenced the annual saltwater crocodile census, a crucial exercise to monitor one of India’s most significant reptile populations.

Beginning on January 8, the three-day operation has temporarily closed the reserve to tourists to ensure safety and accuracy during the surveys.

A total of 24 teams, each comprising four to five members, are conducting systematic counts across the park’s rivers and creeks.

While the Forest Department had earlier considered deploying drones to shorten the census duration from ten days to three, the proposal was withdrawn following concerns about reliability.

Officials opted to continue with traditional boat-based methods, prioritising credibility over speed.

Forest Range Officer Bharadaraj Gaonkar confirmed that census staff underwent training and orientation before deployment. Field surveys will conclude on January 10, with data compilation scheduled for January 11–12.

Tourist activities are expected to resume once findings are submitted to higher authorities.

The census aims to evaluate crocodile population health, conservation effectiveness, habitat use, and management planning. Bhitarkanika remains a critical habitat for saltwater crocodiles, and the outcome of this year’s census will help shape future conservation strategies.

This year’s exercise underscores the balance between tradition and technology in wildlife monitoring, reinforcing Bhitarkanika’s reputation as a vital ecological reserve.