Crocodile Population in Odisha Rises to 2,193; Migratory Bird Arrivals Cross 24.9 Lakh

Bhubaneswar: The crocodile population in Odisha has increased to 2,193, registering a 3.54% rise compared to last year, according to the latest census conducted by the state Forest Department.

Replying to a question in the Assembly, Forest, Environment & Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singhkhuntia informed the House that the census findings indicate a steady improvement in crocodile numbers across the state.

The Minister said that the picturesque regions of Satkosia Gorge Wildlife Sanctuary and Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary currently host 65 adult crocodiles and 22 hatchlings.

The Minister also shared details of the state’s annual bird census, which recorded the arrival of 24,90,986 birds across Odisha during 2025–26. While no rare bird species were found in Chilika Lake this year, two new bird species were identified in the lake, and five new species were spotted in the Hirakud Reservoir.

Highlighting Odisha’s importance as a wintering ground for migratory birds, Singhkhuntia said thousands of birds, particularly waterbirds, visit the state’s wetlands every year to escape the severe cold in their native regions.

Migratory birds typically begin arriving in November, with their numbers peaking in January. As temperatures gradually rise, they start returning to their native habitats from mid-February onwards.