A recent survey in the Similipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha has recorded 84 mugger crocodiles, marking a modest but meaningful increase from last year’s count of 81. This shift signals a positive trend for the reserve’s river ecosystems and the species that depend on them.
- Crocodile count increased from 81 to 84 between 2025 and 2026
- West Deo River remains the crocodiles’ main stronghold in Similipal
- Breeding center releases and habitat protection aid conservation success
What happened
Between January 6 and 8, 2026, over 100 forest officials surveyed 20 sites across eight major water bodies in the Similipal Tiger Reserve to conduct a census of the mugger crocodile population. Their final tally reached 84 crocodiles, up by three from the previous year’s count of 81. This slight increase breaks a two-year downward trend after numbers fluctuated in the early 2020s.
The West Deo River continues to be the key habitat for these reptiles, hosting about 60 of the total population within the reserve. Additional crocodiles were recorded in South Similipal and the Ramatirtha Mugger Crocodile Breeding Centre, where hatchlings are raised and later released to strengthen wild populations.
Why it feels good
Mugger crocodiles serve as important indicators of the overall health of freshwater ecosystems. Their presence depends on clean rivers, ample prey, and safe nesting sites. An increase in crocodile numbers implies that these environmental factors are functioning well, supporting a diverse aquatic community.
The population rebound is a testament to the steady work of conservationists and forest officials, who combine habitat protection with scientific monitoring and managed releases. While the rise is modest, it symbolizes hope for the vulnerable species and reinforces the positive outlook for Similipal’s river ecosystems.
What to enjoy or watch next
Keep an eye on the annual census updates from Similipal, which provide critical insights into crocodile population trends and river health over time. Forest managers use this data to adapt conservation strategies and address threats such as habitat loss and pollution.
The success of the Ramatirtha Mugger Crocodile Breeding Centre serves as a model for breeding and reintroduction programs. Watching how these efforts expand could offer inspiration for similar initiatives in other vulnerable freshwater habitats across South Asia.