Odisha’s Bhitarkanika National Park to remain closed from Jan 2

Kendrapara: The Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha’s Kendrapara district will remain closed for the visitors from January 2 till 10, next year.

In view of influx of migratory birds on the shores of rivers and water courses flowing in Bhitarkanika this winter, the authorities have decided to keep it closed for counting the birds as well as the number of Baula (saltwater) crocodiles.

During census of birds and crocodiles, the tourists will be prohibited to enter the national park, which is surrounded by Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, for nine days.

Notably, the national park was closed for visitors from May 1 to July 31 during breeding season of the saltwater crocodiles.

Bhitarkanika is home to as many as 1671 estuarine crocodiles, white crocodiles, snakes and many other species of flora and fauna.