Dolphin census begins at Chilika lake

January 19, 2020 Environment

Bhubaneswar: Dolphin census has begun in Chilika Lake and Bhitarkanika National Park in Ganjam and Kendrapara districts on Sunday.

“We are having the annual census of Dolphins at Chilika today. It is home to the largest single Irrawaddy Dolphin population in the world, stabilising at around 150. NGOs & staff of the Department are scanning the lake. Results r expected by late evening today,” tweeted Susanta Nanda, Chief Executive of Chilika Development Authority (CDA).

Video of Dolphins at Chilika. A real sight to behold, though a old one. pic.twitter.com/n5f6ucPk6d
— Susanta Nanda (@susantananda3) January 19, 2020

We are having the annual census of Dolphins at Chilika today. It is home to the largest single Irrawaddy Dolphin population in the world, stabilising at around 150. NGOs & staff of the Department are scanning the lake. Results r expected by late evening today. pic.twitter.com/mSPE7SmZMj
— Susanta Nanda (@susantananda3) January 19, 2020

For the first time, the dolphin census in the lake is being conducted with GPS tracking the binocular.

The plying of motorized boats for fisherfolks and tourists has been closed for the day.