Crocodile captured after 4-day hide-and-seek in Odisha village pond

A 6-foot-long crocodile that had entered a village pond in MPV-83 of Malkangiri district was finally captured on Monday by the Forest Department team after a tense four-day operation. 

As per reports, the crocodile was first spotted in the pond by some local villagers, who immediately alerted the Forest Department.

Despite continuous efforts by the Forest Department, Fire Services, and rescue teams using nets and power boats, the reptile managed to evade capture for many days. However, after four days of intense search and monitoring, the crocodile was successfully caught today, much to the relief of the villagers.

Forest Department officials confirmed that the crocodile would undergo a health check-up before being released back into a safe water reservoir. The successful capture has brought a sense of safety and reassurance to the local community.

Must Read: 6-ft crocodile strays into village pond in Odisha’s Kendrapara; rescued

Earlier last month, a 6-foot-3-inch-long female crocodile that had strayed into a private fishing pond at Endulapur village under Rajnagar block in Kendrapara district was captured by the Forest Department officials.

The Forest Department confirmed that the reptile likely strayed into the pond from the Hansua or adjacent tidal creeks linked to the Bhitarakanika sanctuary, following the surge in river water levels caused by recent heavy rains.

After capture, the crocodile was transported and released safely into a creek connected to Bhitarakanika National Park, ensuring it returns to its natural habitat.