Reptile Diversity: Bhagalpur Lowest, Bettiah Highest in Bihar’s Wildlife Sanctuaries
Gharials on Gandak river in West Champaran.
Patna: A recent survey conducted by the Department of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has revealed that the Bhagalpur stretch of the Ganga river, specifically within the Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary, harbors the lowest number of reptile species in Bihar. Conversely, the survey highlighted that the highest diversity of reptile species is found in Bettiah.
The findings, encompassing all 13 wildlife sanctuaries in the state, were published in the Bihar Economic Survey of 2024-25, presented in the state legislature.
The comprehensive survey, which included a detailed assessment of the 60km sanctuary between Sultanganj and Kahalgaon, documented five mammal species, 74 bird species, five reptile species, eight amphibian species, 20 fish species, and 31 types of vegetation.
Within the Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary, the survey confirmed the presence of turtles, crocodiles, snakes, monitor lizards (Vitagoa), and crabs. Notably, the potential inclusion of gharials in the species list is anticipated, following a recent sighting of a crocodile in Amri Diara of Shahjadpur Panchayat. Authorities believe the crocodile may have been carried to the Ganges from the Gandak River during last year’s floods.
The survey underscores the importance of continued monitoring and conservation efforts within Bihar’s wildlife sanctuaries, particularly in the Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary, to ensure the preservation of its unique biodiversity. The data provides crucial insights into the distribution and population dynamics of various species, aiding in the development of effective conservation strategies.
