Rajnagar: The number of crocodiles has marginally increased in the Bhitarkanika National Park in Rajnagar area this year. Last year, 1,811 bull crocodiles were identified in rivers and during the recently concluded crocodile census in the sanctuary their number was found to be 1826, said Rajnagar Divisional Forest Officer Sudarshan Gopinath Yadav.
This year, two more than 20-feet-long crocodiles were spotted near FRH Jetty, and one between Gupti and Hansina. The age of these crocodiles is said to be 100 to 120 years.
In addition, according to the forest department, several crocodiles more than 15-feet-long were spotted near Balipatha, Thanpati, Ganjeikhia, Shuayor, Godharapal, Gumuragaon and Jayanagar-Khola. More white crocodiles have also been spotted this year. Last year 16 white crocodiles were found and this year their number increased to 20. However, the number of crocodiles of length 6 to 8 feet has decreased.
This crocodile census was carried out for three days from January 19 to 21 under the leadership of senior biologist and researcher Dr Sudhakar Kar. This year, the process of counting crocodiles completed 50 years.
