Mayurbhanj, Jan. 14 -- The latest three-day crocodile census was conducted in Similipal National Park in Odisha's Mayurbhanj district from January 6 to January 8. The census was conducted on Wednesday and reported an increase in the crocodile population.

According to the latest census, the number of crocodiles has increased from 81 last year to 84 this year. This is a welcome change after a two-year decline. The West Deo River is home to the highest number of crocodiles, with 60 spotted there alone. Conservation efforts, including the release of hatchlings from the Ramatirtha breeding centre, are paying off.

This marks an increase of three crocodiles compared to last year's count of 81, reversing a recent trend of slight declines. In 20...