Bhubaneswar: Odisha has achieved a major milestone in marine conservation, with the latest census revealing 765 dolphins across various species inhabiting the state’s coastline, including Chilika Lake.
The survey, conducted in January, highlights the success of conservation efforts and the growing harmony between local communities and marine creature.
The census recorded 208 Irrawaddy dolphins, with 159 spotted in Chilika Lake and 9 in Rajnagar.
Other regions, including Balasore, Berhampur, and Puri, also reported dolphin sightings. Notably, the Humpback dolphin population stands at 495, while Bottlenose, Spinner, and Finless dolphins were also documented.
Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (Wildlife) Prem Kumar Jha attributes this success to effective conservation strategies and habitat management. The findings indicate a stable and improving dolphin population trend, reflecting Odisha’s integrated approach to marine conservation.
The lower count of Irrawaddy dolphins in Rajnagar and increased sightings in other divisions suggest migration patterns.
Notably, the dolphin population has remained relatively stable over the past 5 years, with 209 and 208 individuals recorded in 2020-21 and 2021-22, respectively.
