Bhitarkanika National Park

About Bhitarkanika National Park

• It is located in the Kendrapara district of Odisha.
• It is located near the Bay of Bengal, making it an important coastal ecosystem.
• It is designated as a Ramsar Site.
• Bhitarkanika River flows through this national park. Bhitarkanika along with its tributaries Brahmani, Baitarani and Dhamra create a network of tidal estuaries, marshy wetlands and mangrove forests in the region.
• Flora: It is known for its rich mangrove forests, which include species such as: Sundari, Goran & Kadam. The mangroves play a vital role in carbon sequestration, fish breeding and protection against coastal erosion.
• Fauna: Bhitarkanika is home to diverse wildlife, some of which are rare and endangered:
  • Saltwater Crocodile: Known for having the largest population of saltwater crocodiles in India.
  • The Gahirmatha Beach, which forms the boundary of the park in the east, is the largest colony of the Olive Ridley Sea Turtles.
  • Other mammals include jackals, otter, sambar deer,fox, Mongoose, fishing cats, hyenas, etc
  • Bird Species: Over 200 bird species, including migratory birds like black-capped kingfishers, Asian openbills and darters are found here.

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