Saltwater Crocodile Population Rises: 213 Sightings in Sundarbans, 2025

swift Summary

• Population Increase: A new survey by West Bengal’s Forest Department reveals the estimated population of saltwater crocodiles in the Sundarban Biosphere Reserve (SBR) has grown compared to last year. The current population is estimated at 220-242, with 213 direct sightings.
• Improved Demographics: Direct sighting data for 2025 recorded 125 adults, 88 juveniles, and 23 hatchlings-a notable rise from last year’s figures of 71 adults, 41 juveniles, and only two hatchlings.
• Encounter Rate: Saltwater crocodiles are encountered at a rate of approximately one per every 5.5 kilometers in the studied stretch.
• Study Details: The survey covered nearly two-thirds (1168 km) of creek length within SBR using systematic methods like GPS mapping and habitat characterization.
• Habitat Preferences: Crocodiles prefer creeks/rivers with high tide widths below 180 meters and tolerate varying salinity levels during winter; however, rising salinity due to climate change could threaten their conservation in Sundarbans.
• Conservation Efforts: The Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project launched conservation initiatives since its inception in South Bengal in 1976.Between its start until closure in 2022, it helped release over 577 individuals into the wild.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The increase in saltwater crocodile population within Sundarbans demonstrates the positive impact of sustained conservation measures over decades by West Bengal’s forest authorities. Notably highlighted growth among hatchlings signifies improved breeding success rates-a promising growth given their rare visibility under usual conditions.

However, ongoing challenges such as rising salinity levels attributed to climate change pose risks to long-term habitat viability for this apex predator species. These findings underline a need not only for continued monitoring but also enhanced adaptive strategies addressing both ecological sustainability and broader environmental stressors impacting biodiversity-rich regions such as Sundarbans.The report reflects how proactive regional initiatives-such as intentional breeding programs under projects like Bhagabatpur-contribute tangibly toward reversing trends on endangered species populations when consistently pursued over extended periods.

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