Bhubaneswar: The annual dolphin census will begin tomorrow in Chilika Lake, the largest brackish water lagoon. The exercise will continue for three days.
Eighteen special teams, comprising 3-5 enumerators and an expert, have been formed to conduct the count in Balugaon and Satpada areas adjacent to the lake. The teams will use the line transect method, equipped with GPS, binoculars, and hydrophones, to accurately count the dolphins.
As part of the census, boat movement will be banned from 6 am to 12 noon to ensure a smooth and safe count. The Chilika Development Authority and Forest Department have informed all boat associations in the area about the census and the restrictions.
Last year’s census recorded 173 dolphins, including 154 Irrawaddy and 19 bottlenose dolphins. The census aims to provide valuable insights into the lake’s ecosystem and help conservation efforts.
