Core Development and Context
- Odisha’s saltwater (estuarine) crocodile population has increased to 1,858, registering a rise of 32 individuals, according to the State Forest and Environment Department’s latest census.
- The estimation was conducted using a pilot drone-based survey, marking a significant technological upgrade in wildlife population assessment and monitoring practices.
Relevance
- GS I – Physical geography, estuarine ecosystems, mangroves, biodiversity distribution
- GS III – Wildlife conservation, endangered species protection, use of drones in ecology
Census Methodology and Data Details
- The census was conducted between January 8 and 10, ensuring minimal seasonal movement bias and improved visibility of crocodiles in estuarine and riverine habitats.
- Of the total 1,858 crocodiles, the count includes 531 hatchlings, 365 juveniles, 167 sub-adults, and 353 adults, indicating a healthy age-structure distribution.
Spatial Distribution and Habitat Concentration
- A maximum of 1,424 saltwater crocodiles were recorded in Bhitarkanika National Park (Kanika Wildlife Range), reaffirming it as India’s strongest habitat for estuarine crocodiles.
- Bhitarkanika’s mangrove-dominated estuarine ecosystem, fed by the Brahmani–Baitarani river system, provides optimal breeding and nesting conditions.
Species Profile: Saltwater Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus)
- The saltwater crocodile is the largest living reptile in the world, capable of inhabiting marine, estuarine, and freshwater ecosystems, making it ecologically versatile.
- In India, it is primarily found in Odisha, West Bengal (Sundarbans), and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, with Odisha hosting the largest mainland population.
Legal and Conservation Status
- The species is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, affording it the highest level of legal protection in India.
- Globally, it is classified as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List, reflecting successful recovery efforts across parts of its range.
Role of the Crocodile Conservation Project
- Odisha’s success builds on the Crocodile Conservation Project (1975), one of India’s earliest species-specific conservation programmes under Project Tiger-era wildlife planning.
- The project focused on habitat protection, captive breeding, restocking, and strict anti-poaching measures, particularly after population crashes in the mid-20th century.
Significance of Drone-Based Wildlife Surveys
- The use of drones improves accuracy, coverage, and safety in monitoring large, dangerous reptiles inhabiting inaccessible mangrove and tidal ecosystems.
- Drone surveys reduce human–wildlife conflict risks for forest staff and allow real-time spatial mapping of crocodile distribution.
