Bhubaneswar, Nov 30: The All Odisha Elephant Census 2024 (winter) has recorded a slight increase in the state’s elephant population, now totaling 2,103 elephants across 38 forest divisions. This marks a rise of five elephants from the summer census conducted earlier this year.
The census, held from November 14 to 16, used direct sighting methods and documented 334 adult tuskers, 12 adult makhnas, 678 adult females, 181 juveniles, and 403 calves. Over 6,000 personnel, including forest staff, biologists, and NGOs, participated in the survey, which was supported by drones and 1,376 observation platforms.
Notable increases in elephant numbers were observed in regions such as Dhenkanal, Rourkela, and Sambalpur, while decreases were recorded in areas like Similipal North Wildlife Sanctuary and Raygada. The census also highlighted seasonal inter-state migrations, with elephants moving between Odisha, Jharkhand, and West Bengal.
The report underscores the stability of Odisha’s elephant population, with a healthy balance across different age groups, and stresses the importance of ongoing conservation efforts to protect these majestic animals.
