Bhitarkanika Park to remain closed for three months

Sambad English Bureau Published On : Apr 29, 2014 at 11:05 AM Updated On : Apr 29, 2014 at 11:06 AM

Odisha Sun Times Bureau
Kendrapara, Apr 29:

With the onset of breeding season for the estuarine crocodiles, the forest department has imposed a three-month ban on the entry of the tourists to Odisha’s Bhitarkanika National Park from May 1.

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“In view of the breeding of the estuarine crocodiles, visit to the Bhitarkanika, Dangamala and Ragadapati forest blocks inside the park premises has been totally banned”, said DFO of Rajnagar Mangrove (Wildlife) Forest Division Kedar Kumar Swain.

He said the prohibitory order is being imposed to ensure a tranquil environment for the crocodiles who generally turn violent during the mating period.

The forest officials have also asked the riverside villagers to remain alert and inform them about the presence of crocodiles outside the park area.

As per the latest census, there are 1644 estuarine crocodiles within the Bhitarkanika National Park of which 504 are hatchlings, 387 yearlings and 307 juvenile crocodiles.

Besides, there are 142 sub-adult crocodiles and 304 adult crocodiles, the DFO informed.