Baripada: The latest crocodile census conducted at Similipal National Park has recorded a modest but significant rise in the reptile population, offering a boost to ongoing conservation efforts in the reserve.
According to official data, the total number of crocodiles has increased from 81 last year to 84 this year.
The census was carried out over three days, from January 6 to January 8, covering 20 locations across eight major water bodies within the park. A total of 16 forest ranges spanning both North and South Similipal were surveyed during the exercise.
Among the water bodies monitored, the West Deo River recorded the highest concentration of crocodiles, with 60 individuals sighted there alone. Of the overall count, 78 crocodiles were found in the South Similipal forest division, one in the North Similipal division, and five at the Ramatirtha crocodile breeding centre.
More than 100 forest personnel—including rangers, foresters, and frontline staff—were deployed in nearly 30 teams to conduct the census, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the reserve.
Official records show that Similipal’s crocodile population has fluctuated in recent years. The park was home to 81 crocodiles in 2021, which rose to 83 in 2022 and peaked at 86 in 2023. However, the number declined to 82 in 2024 and further to 81 in 2025. This year’s increase of three crocodiles has brought the total count to 84, effectively reversing the declining trend observed over the past two years.
Forest officials attributed the rise to sustained conservation initiatives, particularly the regular release of hatchlings from the Ramatirtha crocodile breeding centre into various water bodies within Similipal. They said continued monitoring and habitat protection measures are expected to further stabilise and strengthen the population in the coming years.
