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UPSC BHITARKANIKA NATIONAL PARK - English

BHITARKANIKA NATIONAL PARK

Why in News?

Recently, the Bhitarkanika National Park have reached a saturation point in the population of crocodile which could lead to more human-Crocodile conflict.

• Bhitarkanika National Park is spread in a vast area of 672 Kms in Orissa.
• It is the second largest Mangrove ecosystems of India.
• The National Park is essentially a network of creeks and canals which are inundated with waters from rivers Brahmani, Baitarani, Dhamra and Patasala forming a unique ecosystem.
• Its proximity to Bay of Bengal makes the soil of the area enriched with salts, the vegetation and the species of the sanctuary is comprised of those which are mainly found in the tropical and subtropical inter tidal regions.
• It is the breeding place for the endangered Salt Water Crocodiles.
• The Gahirmatha Beach which forms the boundary of the sanctuary in the east is the largest colony of the Olive Ridley Sea Turtles.
• The other unique phenomenon is the Bagagahana or the heronry near Surajpore creek.
• Thousands of birds colonise the creek for nesting and the aerial acrobatics performed prior to mating make for an impressive sight.
• Bhitarkanika is also home to eight varieties of Kingfisher birds which is also a rarity.

Crocodile Conservation Project

• The crocodile conservation project in Bhitarkanika was started in 1975.
• Its main objective was to protect the reptiles’ natural habitats and to rebuild the population quickly through captive breeding as the survival rate of crocodile hatchlings in nature is low because of predation.
• Since Odisha is recognized for the existence of all the three species of Indian crocodilians, the Gharial and Saltwater crocodile conservation programme was first implemented in Odisha in early 1975 and subsequently, the Mugger conservation programme was initiated.
• The UNDP/ FAO provided funds and other technical support through the Government of India.

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