Environment News

Mugger crocodile population

January 21 , 2026 10 hrs 0 min 22 0

The latest crocodile census showed an increase in crocodile numbers in Similipal National Park, Odisha.
The total crocodile population increased from 81 in 2025 to 84 in 2026.
The Deo River recorded the highest number with 60 crocodiles.
The park is located in Mayurbhanj district, Odisha, in the Eastern Ghats, and covers about 2,750 square kilometres.
The park has been part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves since 2009.
Major rivers like Budhabalanga and Deo flow through the park and support crocodile habitats.
The rise in crocodile numbers is linked to releases from the Ramtirtha Mugger Crocodile Breeding Centre.