The Mini Amazon of India
Bhitarkanika is India’s second-largest mangrove ecosystem situated in Odisha, India. It covers an area of 650 km in the deltas of Brahmani and Baitarani rivers.
Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary was declared vide notification No.6958/FF AH on 22 April 1975 over an area of 672 km².
After the ablation of Jamidar Giri in 1952, this ecosystem came under the control of the Odisha Government, and the total area of 15 square km was declared a National Park on 16 September 1998 under the recognition of UNESCO.
The meaning of Bhitarkanika is “Bhitara ” which means Interior and “Kanika” which means beautiful. Then it means an ecosystem
filled with various fauna and flora.
As it is titled a Mini amazon you can guess that there one can find various types of wildlife. It’s famous for its saltwater crocodile(Crocodilus porosus) and is also the home of the king cobra, wild boar, rhesus monkey, Indian python, Asian water monitor, deer, and so many other important wildlife.
Around 3,000 saltwater crocodiles were born during the annual breeding and nesting season of 2014.There are 320 bird species found in Bhitarkanika and it becomes a hub of birds during monsoon season and that time more than 1lakh migratory birds come to Bhitarakanika.
One can see birds like black ibis, darters, cormorants, etc.One more attractive thing is a rare White crocodile is also a part of this distinct ecosystem.
Bhitarkanika is a miracle of nature and its rich wildlife area is considered the best wildlife protection area in India. Out of 58 species of mangroves, more than 55 occur in Bhitarkanika wetlands.
It also holds a Guinness Book Of World Records for having the largest saltwater crocodile weighing 2000kg and 7.1m long.
If you want to enjoy its beauties then come and stay to make your soul filled with the joy of happiness.
Reptiles: Indian Python, Monitor Lizard, White Crocodile, and Salt Water Crocodile.
Mammals: Chital, Hyena, Jungle Cats, Sambar Deer, Spotted Deer, Wild boar, and Wolves.
Birds: Kingfishers, Raptors, Owls, Waterfowl, Shorebirds, and Flycatchers.
Also Read:- Eco Retreat Odisha | Eco Retreat 2020-2021
