The annual wildlife census in Ganjam district has brought encouraging news for conservationists. The population of the endangered mugger crocodile in the Ghodahada reservoir and its adjoining water bodies near Digapahandi has shown a healthy increase. The latest count stands at 95 reptiles, marking a gain of eight individuals compared to the previous year.
Census Reveals Steady Population Growth
The three-day census exercise, which concluded on Thursday, January 8, was conducted by the Berhampur forest division. A team of around 80 personnel, divided into 25 squads, meticulously surveyed the area from January 6 to 8 under the supervision of Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Sunny Khokkar. The census employed the direct sighting method for accuracy.
The final tally confirmed 95 mugger crocodiles in the region. Out of these, 63 were counted in and around the core 5 square kilometre area of the Ghodahada reservoir itself. The remaining 32 were spotted in 16 smaller water bodies located nearby. This year's figure of 95 continues a positive multi-year trend, with the population recorded at 87 in 2023, 84 in 2022, 81 in 2021, and 77 in 2020.
Key Factors Behind the Conservation Success
DFO Sunny Khokkar attributed the consistent rise in mugger numbers to a combination of effective conservation measures and community support. He highlighted several crucial factors that have created a safer and more sustainable habitat for the crocodiles.
The restriction of fishing activities in the reservoir has played a significant role, reducing human-animal conflict and competition for resources. Alongside this, active habitat improvement initiatives undertaken by the forest department have enhanced the ecosystem. Perhaps most importantly, the protection and cooperation offered by local residents living around the reservoir have been instrumental in the species' recovery.
Ghodahada's Significance in Statewide Conservation
The Ghodahada reservoir is a vital stronghold for mugger crocodiles in Odisha. It is recognized as one of only three major habitats for the species in the state, sharing this status with the well-known sanctuaries of Satkosia and Similipal. The mugger, a freshwater crocodile species, is one of three crocodilian species found in Odisha, the others being the gharial and the saltwater or estuarine crocodile.
The successful census and the growing population underscore the importance of sustained conservation efforts. The findings from Ghodahada offer a replicable model where habitat management, regulatory measures, and community engagement converge to protect India's precious wildlife heritage.
