About Bhitarkanika National Park:
- Located: It is located in Odisha.
- It is surrounded by the Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary. Gahirmatha Beach and Marine Sanctuary lie to the east, and separates a swamp region covered with a canopy of mangroves from the Bay of Bengal.
- It is India’s second largest mangrove ecosystem after the Sunderbans.
- It nestles in the estuary of Brahmani, Baitarani, and Dhamra rivers.
- Vegetation: The vegetation and species of the sanctuary are those that are mainly found in the tropical and subtropical intertidal regions.
- It is also designated as a Ramsar site.
- Flora: Mangrove species, casuarinas, and grasses like the indigo bush.
- Fauna:
- It is home to the largest congregation of saltwater crocodile in the country.
- The Gahirmatha Beach is the largest colony of the Olive Ridley Sea Turtles.
- It is also home to numerous animals like hyenas, wild boar, Chitals, Sambar, Spotted Deer, Wild Boar, Jungle cat, Wild Pigs, etc.
