Bhitarkanika Sanctuary
Located
slightly further away is the coastal area of Gahirmatha, where the giant Pacific
ridley sea turtles, traveling annually from as far away from South America nest
by the millions. Special arrangements were made to ensure their protection as
the turtles were preyed upon by the local folk many years ago.
Located in the second largest mangrove forest in the country, the sanctuary
has protected the estuarine crocodiles since 1975.
Bhitarakanika
is a natural habitat of a lot of wild creatures like Crocodiles, King Cobra,
Pythons, Wild Pigs, Rhesus Monkey, Sambars, Spotted Deer etc. There. is a Crocodile
Breeding Farm at Dangmal. The pride possession of this Farm is the White Crocodile
Sankhua, a rare species in the World.
Over 170 species of resident and migratory birds of different hue enhance the
beauty of the wild. Prominent among them are King Fisher, Open billed Storks,
Sea Eagles, Kites, Sand Pipers, Darters, Whistling Teals, Sea Gulls, etc. The
chirping of birds nesting at Baga Gahana is sure to leave an indelible impression
in any body's mind. Watching the wildlife in their natural habitat while cruising
through the creeks is a thrilling experience. A trek on the laid out routes
will also be equally rewarding.
