Great news! Odisha’s dolphin population is on a steady rise. Thanks to conservation efforts, the latest survey records 765 dolphins across the state’s coast and rivers. This is also the highest recorded figure for these marine species in Odisha in the last five years! Here is everything you need to know about this.
Odisha’s Dolphin Population Rises To 765
Odisha’s marine conservation efforts are showing results. In the latest development, the state’s dolphin population has jumped to 765. According to a report by The New Indian Express, Odisha has registered an impressive growth of nearly 8% in just one year. This figure is also the highest recorded for the majestic dolphins in the last five years.
PCCF Wildlife and Chief Wildlife Warden Prem Kumar Jha shared with The New Indian Express that the annual dolphin population survey for 2025-26, carried out last month, recorded a total of 765 dolphins. This is about 7.75% higher than the 2024 count of 710.
Moreover, the latest estimation documented six species of dolphins and cetaceans along the Odisha coast. These include Irrawaddy dolphins, Bottlenose dolphins, Humpback dolphins (both Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean), Spinner dolphins and Finless Porpoises.
Also Read: Odisha’s Strawberries Go Global; 51 Kg Fresh Strawberries Exported To London For The 1st Time
Where Were The Dolphins Counted?
According to The New Indian Express, the survey was conducted in Chilika Lake, Rajnagar mangrove wildlife division, Puri, Bhadrak Wildlife Division, Balasore Wildlife Division and Berhampur forest division. Here are the numbers recorded in these regions:
Rajnagar: 493 dolphins
Chilika Lake: 175 dolphins
Puri: 66 dolphins
Balasore: 15 dolphins
Berhampur: 13 dolphins
Bhadrak: 3 dolphins
These numbers strongly reflect Odisha’s efforts and its integrated approach to marine conservation. Habitat protection, community awareness and teamwork among conservationists have clearly delivered results. This development is definitely very significant.
Also Read: Mumbaikars Spot Dolphins At Worli Sea Face; Netizens Say, Result Of Keeping Water Clean
Have you ever seen dolphins? If not, you might soon have to plan a trip to Odisha! No experience really compares to watching a gorgeous dolphin leap in and out of the water. Trust us, it is pure magic!
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Horia Ionescu’s (Representative Image)
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