Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the estuary region of Brahmani-Baitarani towards the North-Eastern corner of Kendrapara District of Odisha. It is placed at a distance of 190 km from Bhubaneswar and 160 km from Odisha and is one of the renowned sanctuaries of Odisha. The sanctuary occupies an area of 650 square km. It is one of the few sanctuaries in India which is the abode of Crocodiles, Turtles and various species of birds. The area was declared a sanctuary in the year 1975. After being recognized as wildlife sanctuary the region was converted into a national park in 1998.
Flora and Fauna of Bhitarkanika Sanctuary
The Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary is a significant eco-system of the state. It contains 63 of the 75 Mangrove varieties. The sanctuary has several giant salt water Crocodiles and endangered Turtles. The Dangmar Island is a wonderful breeding ground and conservation ground for Crocodiles.
Besides the reptiles, the Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary also has several mammals, birds, amphibians and fish. Some of the mammals which are found in the region are Hyena, Fishing Cat, Jungle Cat, Smooth Coated Otter, Civet, Indian Porcupine, Wild Boar, Spotted Deer and Sambar. The endangered Lesser Adjutant Stork is also found in the Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary. Some of the less dangerous species that are found in the region are Pythons, Water Monitors and timid Deers. The birds that are commonly found in the region are brilliantly coloured Kingfishers, Herons, Raucous open-billed Storks, Open billed Storks, Sea Eagles, Kites, Sand Pipers, Darters, Whistling Teals and Sea Gulls. The Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary protects the Gahirmatha nesting beach of the endangered Olive ridley Turtles.
The wildlife sanctuary is crisscrossed by a number of canals, creeks and rivulets. During high tide, the forest gets submerged under this water bodies. A boat ride in these water bodies is the only way to explore the Mangrove forests.
Visiting Information to Bhitarkanika Sanctuary
The best season to visit the sanctuary is from October to April. Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary is easily accessible by air, water and land. By air the area can easily be accessed via Bhubaneshwar Airport. By water it can be reached through Chandabali, Ragnagar and Gupti. Nearest railway stations are in Bhadrak District, Balsore District, Cuttack and Bhubaneswar.
