Odisha’s saltwater crocodile population rises to 1,858

Odisha’s estuarine crocodile population increased by 32 to 1,858 after the State Ministry of Forests and Environment launched a pilot drone-based survey this year.

Annual estimation of saltwater crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) was conducted from 8 to 10 January 2026 along river systems in and around Bhitarkanika National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, Gahirmatha Wildlife Sanctuary, Mahanadi delta area and Devi river estuary area.

Odisha has India’s largest population of saltwater crocodiles in its natural habitat.

According to the Chief Conservatorship of Forest (Wildlife), a total of 1858 crocodiles were counted, including 531 juveniles (28.58%), 442 crocodiles (23.79%), 365 juveniles (19.64%), 167 subadults (8.99%) and 353 adults (19%).

“Of the total crocodiles counted, maximum 1,424 (76.64%) were detected in Kanika Wildlife Area, which includes forest blocks and rivers from Khola to Bhitarkanika-Pathasala junction,” the ministry said.

“As many as 292 (15.72%) crocodiles were recorded in Rajnagar wildlife area. 99 (5.33%) crocodiles were recorded in Mahanadi delta of Mahakalpada Range and a total of 43 (2.31%) crocodiles were counted in Gahirmatha wildlife area. Survey results show an increase of 32 crocodiles (1858 crocodiles) compared to Jan-2025 forecast results,” he said. department

A total of 24 census teams were assigned to count crocodiles in 54 segments. Population estimation was accomplished by collecting data through individual counts using boat-based surveys conducted both during the day and night.

“Alligators over 6 feet in length were classified into subadults and adults, which were counted during the day. Juveniles (< 2 ft), yearlings (2 to 3 ft), and juveniles (3 to 6 ft) were counted primarily at night using strong spotlights."

PK Jha of PCCF (Wildlife) said a pilot drone-based survey was conducted in December to evaluate the use of drones for crocodile forecasting. “Key research parameters such as flight altitude, timing, transect design, detection rate and animal response were recorded to facilitate standardization of drone-based research protocols,” he said.

“As a future strategy, drones and cameras will be used in selected river sections to identify and profile individual crocodiles based on specific morphological characteristics. This approach will supplement existing population data, reduce observer bias and strengthen the spatial database of crocodile distribution and abundance,” Mr. Jha said.