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Crocodile Deaths Alarming in Bhitarkanika National Park
9 Jun
Summary
- A seven-foot saltwater crocodile carcass was found floating in Hansua river.
- Illegal fishing is suspected to be a cause of recent crocodile deaths.
- Bhitarkanika National Park is home to 1,858 saltwater crocodiles.
A seven-foot-long female saltwater crocodile, estimated to be around 10 years old, was found dead on Monday in the Hansua river. The carcass was discovered floating near Gopalpur village within the Bhitarkanika National Park. Forest officials were alerted by locals and have retrieved the body for an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.
This incident is particularly concerning as it marks another unnatural death of a saltwater crocodile in the protected area. Wildlife experts point to illegal fishing as a probable cause, where crocodiles can become entangled in nets and drown. This follows other recent discoveries, including an 11-foot male crocodile found in the same river on April 15.
Bhitarkanika National Park is a critical habitat for saltwater crocodiles, with the latest census in January 2026 reporting 1,858 individuals. Conservationists emphasize the importance of protecting these animals, which are listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and express alarm over the increasing mortality rates.
