As per official data, Tamil Nadu is home to several notable populations of mugger crocodiles in its breeding centres.
The Tamil Nadu Forest Department is conducting studies to map the population of mugger crocodiles in the wild and reduce human-crocodile conflict, which has been reported in several areas along the Cauvery delta.
A recent preliminary study has revealed that Tamil Nadu is home to a significant population of mugger or marsh crocodiles (Crocodylus palustris), most widespread crocodilian species in India, particularly along the Kollidam, a stretch of the Cauvery river, with over 50 individuals recorded along Anaikarai alone, according to researchers.
The findings come amid concerns over several instances of human-crocodile conflict that have been reported in the Cauvery delta districts and nearby water bodies.
A. Kumaraguru, a conservation scientist with the Biodiversity Conservation Foundation, noted that it was challenging to assess the situation based on isolated incidents, as there was no baseline data from regular surveys of the mugger crocodile population. “Baseline data is crucial to determine whether there’s a significant rise or decline in the population,” he added.
Phase one of the study, conducted by Wildlife Portal of India, a conservation organisation in Cuddalore district, identified critical crocodile habitats to understand the conflict zones and propose long-term strategies for habitat conservation.
While the presence of the species along the Cauvery delta regions has long been known, this is the first study to highlight specific zones of frequent crocodile activity — many of which fall outside Reserve Forest areas and are under the control of the Public Works Department (PWD), making them easily accessible to the public.
Currently, a significantly larger area is being surveyed, covering a total of 1,000 km. This includes various waterbodies such as the Thenpannaiyar and Veeranam. Numerous crocodile sightings have been reported — 85 live sightings so far, which is considered a conservative estimate. The actual number of crocodiles could be even higher.
As per official data, Tamil Nadu is home to several notable populations of mugger crocodiles in its breeding centers. The Sathanur center is home to 299 crocodiles, while Hogenakkal has 93, and Amaravathi hosts a population of 82.
According to the report, the areas identified as “critical habitats” are also locations of frequent human activity, particularly fishing and open defecation. These activities often coincide with crocodile basking times, increasing the risk of encounters.
“Fishing is a major livelihood in the Cuddalore district, and many of the fishing zones overlap with crocodile territories,” said Nishanth Ravi, who led the research. “These conflict hotspots pose serious threats both to the locals and to the crocodiles, which are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972,” he added.
Emergency response recommended
Among the key recommendations from the study is the establishment of an Emergency Response Team in districts like Cuddalore, equipped to handle crocodile-related emergencies. “Crocodiles, especially during basking hours, do not distinguish between prey and humans. It’s essential to restrict general access to known basking and nesting sites,” the report noted.
Mr. Ravi called for infrastructure improvements, behavioral change campaigns, and clear demarcation of crocodile zones.
The Tamil Nadu government had allocated ₹2.5 crore for the establishment of a Crocodile Conservation Centre at Anaikarai. So far, ₹1 lakh has been spent on awareness creation, ₹5 lakh on equipment, and ₹6.5 lakh on ongoing research activities, which include population studies, breeding site identification, and conflict mitigation planning.
However, the project faced an initial setback after the originally proposed land was found to be under river poromboke and managed by the PWD. According to Supriya Sahu, Additional Chief Secretary, Environment, Climate Change and Forests, an alternative site at Anakkarai had been selected, and work would begin after legal formalities were completed.
Published – April 13, 2025 08:23 pm IST
