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crocodiles in Bhitarkanika wildlife sanctuary
by Sarda Lahangir
Bhitarkantha (Orissa): Experts from Orissa report the number of crocodiles has increased as compared to previously recorded at Bhitarkanika wildlife sanctuary in Orissa. The census survey of the State forest and wildlife department and environmentalists between January 6 and 9 reveals that the total number of the endangered reptile, crocodile, has gone up to 1,552 from 1,449 last year at the Bhitarkanika sanctuary which is also a home to the largest population of giant saltwater crocodiles in India. Saltwater crocodiles are carnivorous scavengers. They live mainly on fish but also feed on carcasses flowing into the area from nearby human habitations and occasionally on cattle and deer. "Bhitarkanika is the most ideal site because of the presence of mangroves and there is plenty of food available, at least fish and crabs, and the most important factor is that we are providing protection," said Sudarshan Patra, Located near the Sunderbans in West Bengal, Bhitarkanika is spread over an area of 670 sq km.
It
may be mentioned that the Ministry of Forest and environment along with
UNDP had started a crocodile breeding and rearing project in Dangmal crocodile
breeding centre within the Bhitarkanika sanctuary. The increase in the
number of crocodiles at Bhitarkanika is attributed to this factor. School
children who visited the Bhitarkanika sanctuary after it was opened for
visitors say they are very happy to see the huge reptiles. "I am feeling
really good, I have never seen crocodiles, I saw them only in pictures.
I also saw a huge snake. It is really good," said Vandana, a visitor.
Bhitarkanika has the second largest mangrove ecosystem in India and houses
some 215 species of birds and animals, including eight varieties of kingfishers.
The Gahirmatha beach in Bhitarkanika is one of the largest breeding grounds
for the endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles.
-Jan
22, 2006
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