Bhitarkanika Mangroves

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Bhitarkanika mangroves are one of the complex and fragile mangrove ecosystems in India which is represented by as many as 3 Protected Areas, namely Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhitarkanika National Park and Gahirmatha (Marine) Sanctuary. Of the 72 species of mangroves identified world over, 62 species thrive here. This area harbours the world’s largest rookery for olive ridley sea turtles and a sizable population of the endangered salt water crocodile. The area also hosts significant population of king cobras, horse shoe crabs, 3 species of monitor lizards, large and diverse population of resident and migratory birds. This is the only place in the country where you get to see eight species of kingfishers at one place. This area was notified as a Ramsar site recently and has been identified as Important Bird Area of the country.