Context:
A recent 2025 survey by the West Bengal Forest Department has found a substantial increase in the population of saltwater crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) in the Sundarban Biosphere Reserve compared to 2024. The State government’s consistent efforts over the decades under the Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project have been credited with this positive trend.
Key Findings:
· Estimated Range: 220 – 242 crocodiles
· Direct Sightings: 213 individuals
o Adults: 125
o Juveniles: 88
o Hatchlings: 23
Comparison with 2024:
· Adults: 71 (2024) → 125 (2025)
· Juveniles: 41 → 88
· Hatchlings: 2 → 23
· This is a significant increase in all demographic categories.
About saltwater crocodile :
The saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) is the largest of all crocodilians and the largest reptile in the world., often exceeding 6 meters in length. Found across coastal India, Southeast Asia, and northern Australia, it inhabits estuaries, rivers, mangroves, and coastal wetlands. In India, key habitats include Bhitarkanika National Park (Odisha), Sundarbans (West Bengal), and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Ecological Significance and Threats
As an apex predator, the saltwater crocodile helps maintain ecological balance by controlling prey populations and cleaning water bodies by scavenging carcasses. Major threats include habitat loss, illegal hunting, and increasing human-wildlife conflict, particularly in fishing communities near mangroves.
Conservation Measures
- Listed as ‘Least Concern’ by the IUCN, conservation efforts are ongoing in India. The Crocodile Conservation Project (1975) and Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project (West Bengal) have aided population recovery.
- About Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve:
- The Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve, established in 1989, is a vital ecosystem in West Bengal, forming part of the world’s largest delta created by the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers. It is home to the world’s largest tidal halophytic mangrove forest and is bordered by the Muriganga River (west) and the Harinbhanga and Raimangal Rivers (east).
Ecological Significance
The Sundarbans is the only mangrove forest inhabited by the Royal Bengal tiger. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Ramsar Site, underlining its global ecological importance. The area supports diverse wildlife, including saltwater crocodiles, dolphins, turtles, and numerous bird species. It also serves as a natural barrier against cyclones and coastal erosion, and acts as a carbon sink, helping mitigate climate change.
Conclusion
The thriving population of saltwater crocodiles in the Sundarbans is a testament to the success of conservation efforts. However, continued vigilance and protection of their habitat are necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of this iconic species
