Crocodile population rises to 366 in the Rapti and Narayani rivers
CHITWAN, DECEMBER 20
Nine male gharials, considered a rare species, have been recorded in the Rapti and Narayani rivers flowing through Chitwan National Park (CNP), according to park authorities.
Of the total, seven male gharials were found in the Rapti River, while two were recorded in the Narayani River, said CNP Information and Conservation Officer Abinash Thapa Magar.
A direct census conducted this year recorded a total of 366 crocodiles in the two rivers-231 in the Rapti and 135 in the Narayani. In comparison, last year's census counted 352 crocodiles, including 206 in the Rapti and 146 in the Narayani.
Officials noted that while the crocodile population has increased in the Rapti River, it has declined slightly in the Narayani River.
Crocodiles bred at the Crocodile Breeding Centre in Kasara are regularly released into the rivers to strengthen wild populations. Park officials attributed the overall rise in crocodile numbers to increased public awareness, community-based conservation efforts, and initiatives undertaken by Chitwan National Park.