Gharials

• As many as 35 hatchlings of the gharial, a crocodile species, were spotted at the Satkosia gorge by the Mahanadi River in eastern Odisha recently.
• The gorge is located within the Satkosia Tiger Reserve, which is designated as a United Nations Protected area.
  • It is also designated as a Ramsar site in 2021.
• Odisha houses all three species of crocodiles- Gharial, Mugger and Saltwater

ABOUT GHARIALS

• Scientific name- Gavialis gangeticus
• They are genetically weaker than saltwater crocodiles and muggers.
• Gharials are found majorly in Chambal River, a tributary of Yamuna River.
• Threats– Alteration of habitat, depletion of prey base, poaching for use of body parts etc .
• Protection status
  • IUCN red list status: Critically Endangered
  • Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972- Schedule 1