Bhubaneswar: In a significant conservation success, the Indian Bison population in Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary has shown a remarkable increase, with the latest census data revealing a total of 788 individuals, including 315 juveniles and 128 newborns.
Conducted by the Hirakud Wildlife Division from May 11 to May 13, 2025, this census marks a notable rise from the previous count of 659 Bisons in November 2024, indicating a growth of 129 individuals in just six months.
The census also reported 60 herds, an increase from the previously recorded 52, with female adults leading the herds and guiding sub-adults and juveniles. Notably, juveniles comprise 40% of the total population, highlighting the sanctuary’s conducive environment for breeding and nurturing these majestic creatures.
Debrigarh, aptly termed “The Land of Indian Bisons,” boasts a healthy density of these Schedule-1 species compared to other habitats in India. To further understand their population dynamics and conservation needs, monthly surveys will be conducted during the monsoon and winter seasons to track newborns and determine peak breeding and calving seasons.
In the Safari Zone, 145 Indian Bisons are residing in six herds, marking an increase from the 118 in five herds last year. Known for their territorial behaviour and intelligence, these majestic animals are seen moving 5 to 15 kilometres per day within their mostly constant territory.
