Tamil Nadu surveys mugger crocodile population amid instances of conflicts in Cauvery delta

Tamil Nadu Forest Department studies mugger crocodile population to reduce human-crocodile conflict in Cauvery delta.

The Tamil Nadu Forest Department is conducting studies to map the population of mugger crocodiles in the wild and reduce human-crocodile conflict, which has been reported in several areas along the Cauvery delta. 

A recent preliminary study has revealed that Tamil Nadu is home to a significant population of mugger or marsh crocodiles (Crocodylus palustris), most widespread crocodilian species in India, particularly along the Kollidam, a stretch of the Cauvery river, with over 50 individuals recorded along Anaikarai alone, according to researchers.

The findings come amid concerns over several instances of human-crocodile conflict that have been reported in the Cauvery delta districts and nearby water bodies. 

A. Kumaraguru, a conservation scientist with the Biodiversity Conservation Foundation, noted that it was challenging to assess the situation based on isolated incidents, as there was no baseline data from regular surveys of the mugger crocodile population. “Baseline data is crucial to determine whether there’s a significant rise or decline in the population,” he added.

Phase one of the study, conducted by Wildlife Portal of India, a conservation organisation in Cuddalore district, identified critical crocodile habitats to understand the conflict zones and propose long-term strategies for habitat conservation. 

While the presence of the species along the Cauvery delta regions has long been known, this is the first study to highlight specific zones of frequent crocodile activity — many of which fall outside Reserve Forest areas and are under the control of the Public Works Department (PWD), making them easily accessible to the public.

Currently, a significantly larger area is being surveyed, covering a total of 1,000 km. This includes various waterbodies such as the Thenpannaiyar and Veeranam. Numerous crocodile sightings have been reported  — 85 live sightings so far, which is considered a conservative estimate. The actual number of crocodiles could be even higher.