Odisha's Wildlife: Census Reveals Rich Biodiversity

Odisha state assembly was informed about its rich biodiversity, including 2,098 elephants and 27 tigers. The 2024 census also highlights the presence of various species of crocodiles, Olive Ridley sea turtles, dolphins, and migratory birds in different regions of the state.

The state of Odisha boasts a rich biodiversity, home to 2,098 elephants and 27 tigers, as reported in the state assembly on Tuesday.

Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia provided these figures in response to a question from BJD MLA Dhruba Charan Sahoo. The 2024 census further reveals that Bhitarkanika National Park houses 1,850 saltwater crocodiles, while the Mahanadi River system has 257 mugger crocodiles and 14 gharial crocodiles.

The Odisha government also estimated 3.01 lakh Olive Ridley sea turtles in Gahirmatha during the last nesting season. Additionally, coastal Odisha is home to 743 dolphins, and over 15.92 lakh migratory birds frequent the Chilika Lagoon, Bhitarkanika Mangrove Wetland, and Hirakud reservoir.

(With inputs from agencies.)