Odisha's Coastal Dolphins: A Diverse Marine Census

The Odisha forest department's recent census reveals 710 dolphins in the state, including Humpback, Irrawaddy, Bottlenose, and Spinner species across six divisions. The Rajnagar mangrove division in Kendrapara hosts the largest population, while smaller groups populate Berhampur, Puri, Balasore, and Bhadrak divisions.

A recent census conducted by Odisha's forest, environment, and climate change department has cataloged 710 dolphins in the waters along the state's coastline. The comprehensive report for 2024-25 highlights a diverse dolphin population, with species such as the Humpback, Irrawaddy, Bottlenose, and Spinner documented across various wildlife divisions.

Leading the count, the Rajnagar area of Kendrapara, known for its rich mangrove ecosystems, recorded the highest number of dolphins, registering 505 individuals. Following this, the Chilika lagoon, a crucial habitat for marine life, reported 174 dolphins.

Other wildlife divisions with smaller populations include Berhampur with 13 dolphins, Puri and Balasore each with 7, and Bhadrak with 4. The census underscores the ecological importance of these regions for dolphin conservation.

(With inputs from agencies.)