Why are hatchling sightings a game-changer for Sundarbans’ ecosystem?

Why in News?

A new survey by the West Bengal Forest Department (2025) shows a substantial rise in the saltwater crocodile population in the Sundarban Biosphere Reserve (SBR), especially in the hatchling category.

Concept Corner

Keyword	Explanation (in Points)
Saltwater Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus)	• World’s largest reptile and apex predator • Found in India (Odisha, West Bengal, Andaman & Nicobar Islands) • “Hypercarnivorous” – survives almost entirely on meat • Plays role in cleaning ecosystems by eating carcasses
Sundarban Biosphere Reserve (SBR)	• UNESCO-recognised biosphere reserve • Shared by India & Bangladesh • World’s largest mangrove ecosystem • Habitat for Royal Bengal Tiger & saltwater crocodile
Conservation Efforts	• Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project (since 1976) for breeding • Regular population assessment with GPS mapping • Habitat protection measures by West Bengal Forest Department
Ecological Role of Crocodiles	• Apex predator – maintains food chain balance • Prevents fish overpopulation • Keeps wetlands clean by consuming dead animals • Indicator species for wetland health
Legal Protection	• Listed in Schedule I of Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (highest protection) • Covered under CITES Appendix I (no international trade) • Protected areas: Sundarbans NP, Bhitarkanika NP (Odisha)

Core Highlights

1. The 2025 survey estimates 220–242 saltwater crocodiles in SBR (vs. 204–234 in 2024).
2. Direct sightings: 125 adults, 88 juveniles, 23 hatchlings – a big jump from 2024 figures (71 adults, 41 juveniles, 2 hatchlings).
3. Hatchling sightings = major success of conservation, as they are very rare in Sundarbans terrain.
4. Encounter rate = 1 crocodile every 5.5 km of survey stretch.
5. Efforts since 1976 Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project continue to show positive results.

Recent Developments

• Increase in hatchlings shows healthy breeding conditions in Sundarbans.
• Use of GPS mapping & habitat characterisation in survey adds scientific rigour.
• West Bengal govt. plans to expand eco-tourism while balancing conservation.

Practice Questions

Prelims Q1. Consider the following statements about Saltwater Crocodiles in India:

1. They are found only in the Sundarbans of West Bengal.
2. They are listed in Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
3. They are hypercarnivorous apex predators.
   Which of the above statements is/are correct?
   (a) 1 and 2 only
   (b) 2 and 3 only
   (c) 3 only
   (d) 1, 2 and 3

Prelims Q2. With reference to the Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve, consider the following:

1. It is recognised under UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere (MAB) Programme.
2. It is the world’s largest contiguous mangrove forest.
3. It is the exclusive habitat of saltwater crocodiles in India.
   Which of the above is/are correct?
   (a) 1 and 2 only
   (b) 2 only
   (c) 1 and 3 only
   (d) 1, 2 and 3

Prelims Q3. The Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project, often in news, is located in:
(a) Odisha
(b) West Bengal
(c) Assam
(d) Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Mains Q. Discuss the ecological significance of saltwater crocodiles in India’s coastal and mangrove ecosystems. Highlight the challenges and conservation measures taken by the government.

Answers Box (Prelims)

• Q1 → (b) 2 and 3 only
  Explanation: Found in West Bengal, Odisha, Andamans (not only Sundarbans); Schedule I protection; hypercarnivorous apex predator.
• Q2 → (a) 1 and 2 only
  Explanation: UNESCO-recognised + world’s largest mangrove. Not exclusive habitat (also in Odisha & A&N Islands).
• Q3 → (b) West Bengal
  Explanation: Located in South 24 Parganas, part of SBR since 1976.