80 crocodile nests spotted in Odisha’s Bhitarkanika National Park

Kendrapara: As many as 80 crocodile nests have been spotted at Bhitarkanika National Park located in Kendrapara district of Odisha.

The Saltwater or Estuarine Crocodiles, locally known as Baula Kumbhira have laid eggs in the nests identified in river and watercourses under the national park.

According to forest department reports, a number of Saltwater or Estuarine Crocodiles have laid eggs at Ganjeikhia, Sagunachar, Suajor, Bhramarmari, Bhitarkanika and Dangamal areas under forest clock and Dangamal block of the park.

While 73 nests have been spotted in Kanika range, 4 in Rajnagar range and 3 have been identified in Gahirmatha range area.

Last year, 75 crocodile nests were spotted in Bhitarkanika national park.

The Saltwater or Estuarine crocodiles lay eggs and hatchlings come out during May to July every year. The female pregnant crocodiles used to search for a safe place for laying eggs. They build nests collecting leaves and straws after finding safe place. After laying eggs, they used to cover it with leaves and straws. Each female crocodile used to lay a clutch of between 40 and 50 eggs that incubate for around 75 days.