A first time Survey of the Abundance, Population Structure, and Distribution of Mugger Crocodiles (Crocodylus palustris) using day Ground Surveys in Bhopal and its impact on Community

Project Animal(s) : Crocodile
Project Category : Reptiles
Project Region : Asia
Project Type : Conservation
Project URL : https://juniperpublishers.com/jojwb/pdf/JOJWB.MS.ID.555554.pdf
Project is timebound? : No

Mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris) are one of the planets oldest living creatures, thought to be around 200 million years old which means that crocodiles were around in dinosaur times. The Indian Maggar crocodile is a critically endangered species of freshwater Crocodilians were once abundant in many tropical waters around the world. The dangerous levels of exploitation came with the rise in
demand for crocodile leather throughout the world especially in the European countries. Crocodiles were killed illegally every year to make wallets, shoes, handbags, and belts. With rising demand, hunters turned to more lethal methods. Using high-powered rifles, spotlights, and power boats, hide-hunters have pushed many species to the edge of extinction.Mugger is common in many parts of India and is reported over 12 states. Presently the mugger population is estimated over 4,500+ in the wild, excluding 5000+ in captivity. In the Pre-historic period only seven species resided in India, and the number has decreased due to hunting and habitat destruction, the Maggar population was reduced significantly. Now only three primary species: Mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris), estuarine (coast) crocodile (Crocodylus porous) and Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus).

Project Agency : Personal

Project Agency Contact : Personal

Project Researcher : Dr Sandeep

Additional Information :

The study area selected was aquatic bodies located in Bhopal city the state capital of Madhya Pradesh.