Crocodile Population Rises in Similipal After Two-Year Decline

Bhubaneswar: The latest crocodile census has recorded a rise in the reptile population in Similipal National Park, offering a positive sign for conservation efforts in Odisha. According to official data, the total number of crocodiles has increased to 84 this year, up from 81 recorded last year.

The census was conducted over three days from January 6 to January 8, covering 20 locations across eight major water bodies within the reserve. The exercise involved extensive fieldwork across Similipal’s forest landscape.

Among the surveyed water bodies, the West Deo River reported the highest concentration of crocodiles, with as many as 60 individuals sighted. Overall, 78 crocodiles were found in the South Similipal forest division, one in the North Similipal division, and five at the Ramatirtha crocodile breeding centre.

The large-scale census operation covered 16 forest ranges across both North and South Similipal. More than 100 forest personnel, including rangers, foresters, and frontline staff, were deployed in around 30 teams to ensure accurate counting.

Official records show fluctuating population trends over the years. Similipal had 81 crocodiles in 2021, which increased to 83 in 2022 and peaked at 86 in 2023. The numbers then declined to 82 in 2024 and further to 81 in 2025. The latest count of 84 marks an increase of three crocodiles, reversing the declining trend observed over the past two years.

Forest officials attributed the rise to sustained conservation measures, particularly the regular release of hatchlings from the Ramatirtha crocodile breeding centre into various water bodies. They said continued monitoring and habitat protection would remain crucial to maintaining and improving the population in the coming years.