Environment

Recently, Odisha has seen natural nesting of gharials for the 1st time since they were introduced in its rivers back in 1975.

·        Odisha had become the only state to own all the 3 species of the reptilian i.e. freshwater gharials, muggers and saltwater crocodiles with the introduction ofgharials in 1975.

·        All the original gharials introduced over the years in Odisha are dead currently andOdisha has introduced thirteen additional gharials over the past 3 years within the Mahanadi.

·        The Odisha Forest Department declared Rs 1,000 for anyone rescuing a gharial, and compensation for those whose fishing nets are destroyed by the reptiles.

Freshwater gharials

·        They are a kind of Asian crocodilian reptile distinguished by their long, thin snouts.

·        They were granted full protection within the Seventies and later listed in Schedule one of the wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

·        It is listed as Critically endangered under the IUCN Red List of threatened Species.

·        They live in clear freshwater stream systems, congregation at stream bends wherever the water is deeper.

·        Their vary has shrunk to 2 countries i.e. India, along the Chambal, Girwa, and Son Rivers and nepal, along the Narayani watercourse.

Muggers

·        It may be a medium to massive crocodilian reptile species.

·        It is found in india, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, nepal and in bangladesh and conjointly its range extends westward into eastern iran.

·        It may be a hole-nesting species, with egg-laying taking place throughout the annual dry season.

·        It is listed as ‘Vulnerable’ below the IUCN Red List of vulnerable Species.

·        It is protected under Schedule I of the wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

Saltwater Crocodiles

·        It is that the largest of all crocodilians, and therefore the largest reptilian within the world.

·        Saltwater crocs have an enormous range, populating the brackish and freshwater regions of eastern india, southeast asia, and northern Australia.

·        Apart from the eastern coast of india, the saltwater crocodilian reptile is extraordinarily rare on the Indian landmass.

·        A massive population is present within the Bhitarkanika wildlife Sanctuary of Odisha whereas smaller populations occur throughout the Sundarbans.

·        It is listed as ‘Least Concern’ under the IUCN Red List of vulnerable Species.