Croc population on rise in Bhitarkanika

Kendrapara: The census of saltwater crocodile at Bhitarkanika showed a rise in their population this year.

The annual enumeration, which ended on Wednesday, has put the head-count at 1,682. The census witnessed more 11 crocodiles this time. Last year, the crocodile population in the national park was pegged at 1,671.

The authorities of Bhitarkanika Wildife Sanctuary, home to the largest population of estuarine crocodiles, had carried out the head count operation from January 2 to 8 in the creeks, rivers and water bodies located across the four ranges which include Kanika, Rajnagar, Mahakalpada and Gahirmatha.

As many as 1,303 crocodiles were sighted at Kanika rangeby the census teams.