Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha reopens on Tuesday after three months of being shut. From May 1 to July 31, the park was shut for the yearly estuarine crocodile census. According to Sudarshan Gopinath Yadav, Divisional Forest Officer, Rajnagar Mangrove (wildlife) Forest Division, the park will permit day visitors and overnight stays in cottages and guest homes.
Odisha’s Famous Bhitarkanika National Park Reopens
How about adding #WildlifeTourOdisha in your bucket list on this upcoming season? If you’re really up for some real and fascinating adventure then @Bhitarkanika is waiting for your arrival. https://t.co/EDRJXFXvDL #BhitarkanikaTourism #CrocodileParkOdisha pic.twitter.com/V4dn4nUFbs
— Bhitarkanika National Park Jungle Resorts (@Bhitarkanika) January 29, 2020
The Bhitarkanika National Park was closed to ensure that crocodiles could nest without being disturbed. During this time, the reptiles exhibit violent behavior and assault visitors. Every day, 350 to 400 tourists take boat tours around the mangrove-covered water bodies, which are a popular tourist attraction.
70% of the saltwater or estuarine crocodiles in India are found in Bhitarkanika, where their conservation efforts began in 1975.
The forest department operates rest house facilities in Dangamala, Agaranasi, Habalikothi, Gupti, and Eakakula, drawing visitors from all across India and overseas. Tourists should not carry polythene and not to litter with plastic bottles and other goods in the forest. Use of disposable plastic products in these areas is strictly prohibited. Furthermore, the forest ranger stated that the green protocol will be strictly followed.
Home To Variety Of Mammals, Reptiles And More
Explore the scenic landscape, distinct flora, fauna and mangrove forests at Bhitarkanika. The national park located in the estuary of Rivers Brahmani and Baitarani, with rich biodiversity offers a lifetime experience of pristine natural beauty. #Odisha #IndiasBestKeptSecret pic.twitter.com/SsBDKjh3Wt
— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) October 31, 2021
According to Bhitarkanika National Park officials, the area is home to a variety of mammals, including leopards, wild boars, jungle cats, fishing cats, hyenas, sambars, striped palm squirrels, and gangetic dolphins, as well as reptiles like crocodiles, lizards, water monitors, pythons, and king cobras.
One of the most high repositories of mangrove genes is Bhitarkanika. According to a recent assessment, the National Park is currently home to 1793 crocodiles.
If you are planning to stay or travel to Bhitarkanika, should visit its website to make reservations. (As per Hindustan Times)
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