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Dolphin Census Launches in Chilika Lake After Widespread Sightings

A three-day dolphin census has commenced in Odisha's Chilika Lake, Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, following sightings across the waterbody. The Chilika Wildlife Division and Chilika Development Office are conducting the survey using 10 units across 18 predefined GPS routes from bases at Balugaon and Satapada. Teams on boats, equipped with binoculars and laser rangefinders, are recording sightings and locations from 6 AM to noon. Last year's census recorded a total of 174 dolphins in the lagoon.

Key Points: Dolphin Census Begins in Odisha's Chilika Lake

  • 3-day population assessment underway
  • 18 predefined GPS routes being surveyed
  • 10 census units deployed from two bases
  • Last year's count recorded 174 dolphins
2 min read

Dolphin census begins in Chilika Lake after sightings across lagoon

A three-day dolphin population survey starts in Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, Chilika, following recent sightings across the lake.

"The dolphin census has begun today and will continue for another two days. - Amlan Nayak"

Khordha, January 21

A three-day dolphin census exercise commenced in Odisha's Chilika Lake following sightings of dolphins at several locations across the lagoon, as per officials.

The three-day enumeration drive is being carried out by the Chilika Wildlife Division in coordination with the Chilika Development Office to assess the current population, distribution, and habitat use of dolphins in Asia's largest brackish water lagoon.

Speaking to ANI on Tuesday, Amlan Nayak, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the Chilika Wildlife Division, said the census began early morning and will continue for the next two days. He informed that two major locations have been identified as operational bases for the dolphin census units. "The dolphin census has begun today and will continue for another two days. Two locations have been identified where the dolphin census units will operate: Balugaon and Satapada," Nayak said.

He added that 10 dolphin census units have been deployed from Balugaon, with multiple teams covering predefined routes. "A total of 18 routes have been identified. These routes have already been defined using GPS points by the scientists at the Chilika Development Authority," the DFO said. Boats have been engaged for the exercise, with each boat carrying five to six trained members.

According to Nayak, the teams are recording dolphin sightings using binoculars and laser rangefinders to note angles, distance, and precise locations. "They will record the results in a notepad and also take waypoints using the GPS devices provided to them. Finally, they will submit the data to the control room for compilation," he explained.

The daily survey begins at 6 am and is expected to conclude by noon, depending on the length of the assigned routes. "The exercise started at 6 a.m. and is expected to be completed by 12 noon, as some routes are short while others are a bit longer. Last year's census results recorded a total of 174 dolphins, of which 159 were Irrawaddy dolphins, and 15 were humpback dolphins," he said.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

A
Aman W
Good to see scientific methods being used with GPS and trained teams. This data is essential to understand the impact of tourism and fishing activities on the dolphins. The authorities must ensure the findings lead to concrete protective measures.
R
Rohit P
I visited Chilika last year and did a boat tour from Satapada. Seeing the Irrawaddy dolphins was magical! The boat guides were knowledgeable but I did notice quite a few boats. Hope the census also looks at regulating tourist traffic to prevent disturbance.
S
Sarah B
As an environmental researcher, I appreciate the detailed methodology mentioned. Using predefined GPS routes and laser rangefinders for accuracy is commendable. It sets a good example for wildlife surveys in other ecologically sensitive areas in India.
K
Karthik V
While the effort is good, I have a respectful criticism. These census exercises are often announced after sightings are reported. Shouldn't there be a permanent, real-time monitoring system in place for such an important habitat? Reactive counts are better than nothing, but proactive tech is needed.
M
Meera T
Chilika's dolphins are a source of pride for our state. It's heartening to see the coordination between the Wildlife Division and the Development Authority. Jai Hind! Hope the local communities dependent on the lake are also involved in conservation efforts.

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