Published: 12th Jul, 2021
The recent death of Mugger crocodile (Crocodyluspalustris) in Odisha has raised concerns regarding the threats to the species in Satkosia Gorge Sanctury.
Context
The recent death of Mugger crocodile (Crocodyluspalustris) in Odisha has raised concerns regarding the threats to the species in Satkosia Gorge Sanctury.
About
About the Mugger Crocodile
- It is a medium-sized broad-snouted crocodile native to freshwater habitats.
- The species feeds on insects, fish, reptiles, birds, and mammals.
- Mugger crocodiles are covered under Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
- Since 1982, the species has been marked ‘vulnerable’ in the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species.
- India is home to three primary species of crocodile:
- Mugger or Marsh Crocodile (Crocodyluspalustris)is found in lakes and rivers throughout the country.
- Saltwater crocodile (porosus) is found along the eastern coast of the country and the Nicobar and Andaman Islands.
- Gharial (Gavialisgangeticus)is found in river areas.
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Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary
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Plausible Threats to crocodiles
- Choking by fishing nets
- Blast fishing
- Illegal trade
- construction of dams, barrages, irrigation canals, siltation, changes in the river course, artificial embankments and sand-mining
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Blast fishing
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