Bhubaneswar: The population of marsh crocodiles (mugger crocodiles) in Ghodahada reservoir and nearby water bodies in Ganjam has increased.
Eighteen mugger crocodiles were counted during the recent crocodile count in Ganjam’s Digapahandi block from January 6 to 8. In the last census conducted in 2022, there were 76 muggers in the region.
According to Berhampur Forest Officer Amlan Nayak, “The mugger census was conducted in the wetland in 10 segments and 11 water bodies. Of the 81 muggers, 64 were found in the reservoir and 17 in nearby water bodies. At least 70 crocodiles are adults and three over 10 feet in length.” The three-day census was conducted using the direct sight method from 6 am to 4 pm.
Two Forest Department personnel were deployed in each segment and they moved in the water bodies in country boats so that the crocodiles were not frightened by the noise of motor boats.
Nayak attributed the enhancement of the crocodile habitat by undertaking conservation measures and continuous monitoring of crocodile behaviour to the rise in the number of crocodiles in Ghodahada.
