World Crocodile Day: A Fight Against All Odds To Save And Preserve These Magnificent Reptiles

With 24 species of crocodiles found worldwide, India is home to three, the gharial, mugger crocodile, and saltwater crocodile.

World Crocodile Day: As the sphere of conservation marks World Crocodile Day on June 17, Wildlife SOS reaffirms its commitment to protecting and conserving crocodiles, vital apex predators that play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance. Despite their fearsome reputation, these formidable reptiles are essential to the health of our aquatic ecosystems.

With 24 species of crocodiles found worldwide, India is home to three: the gharial (Gavialis gangeticus), mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris), and saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus). These animals, often seen basking on riverbanks, face significant threats from climate change, habitat degradation, development activities, and illegal poaching. As human encroachment into natural habitats increases, crocodiles frequently fall victim to conflicts and maligned reputation.

Wildlife SOS works tirelessly to rescue and protect crocodiles from distress situations. The organisation’s Rapid Response Unit, operating round-the-clock in four states, has rescued a total of 22 mugger crocodiles in the past year alone, with five rescues in Agra and 17 in Vadodara since January 2023. Each rescue involves thorough medical examinations, necessary treatments, and releasing the crocodiles back into their natural habitats.

Baiju Raj MV, Director- Conservation Projects, Wildlife SOS, said, “Wildlife SOS collaborates with the forest department to rescue crocodiles and raise awareness among villagers to reduce human-crocodile conflicts. We advise avoiding riverbanks during nesting season and have designated areas with steel mesh for activities like washing clothes and handling livestock.”

Geeta Seshamani, Co-founder and Secretary of Wildlife SOS, said, “Raising public awareness about the importance of co-existence is crucial for fostering positive interactions between humans and crocodiles. Wildlife SOS operates emergency rescue helplines in Agra (+91 9917109666) and Vadodara (+91 9825011117), dedicated to crocodile conservation and mitigating human-crocodile conflicts.” 

Kartick Satyanarayan, Co-founder and CEO of Wildlife SOS, said, “Included in Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972, crocodiles are a threatened species in India. On this World Crocodile Day, it is crucial to advance the cause of crocodile conservation to protect the species from further harm.”