Kendrapara, Jul 28: Bhitarkanika National Park has recorded 117 active estuarine crocodile nests during its annual nesting survey, highlighting a stable breeding population and the continued success of conservation efforts in one of India's most important mangrove ecosystems.

The survey was conducted by the Mangrove Forest Division (Wildlife), Rajnagar, between May 1 and June 30, covering all wildlife ranges within the national park to assess the breeding status of estuarine (saltwater) crocodiles.

According to the survey, the Kanika Wildlife Range recorded the highest number of active nests with 106, followed by 10 nests in the Rajnagar Wildlife Range and one nest in the Mahakalpada Wildlife Range.

Forest officials said the Bhitarkanika mangrove ecosystem, a Ramsar Site of international importance, is currently home to 1,858 estuarine crocodiles. The consistent nesting figures over the past five years reflect the effectiveness of habitat protection, scientific monitoring, and long-term conservation measures.

The park recorded 122 active nests in both 2022 and 2023, followed by 114 in 2024, 116 in 2025, and 117 in 2026, indicating sustained breeding activity despite annual fluctuations.

Officials said the annual nesting survey is a key component of the long-term crocodile monitoring programme. The exercise helps identify critical nesting sites, monitor breeding trends, strengthen habitat protection, and formulate future conservation strategies.

Odisha remains the only state in India where all three native crocodilian species—the saltwater crocodile, mugger crocodile, and gharial—continue to thrive in the wild, making the state's wetlands a vital stronghold for crocodile conservation.