Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus)

Mohamed bin Zayed Species project number 10051276

The Crocodilian and Freshwater Turtle Research and Conservation Project, Uttarakhand, India was initiated in June 2010. Primarily aimed at understanding more about the unique population of Gharial Gavialis gangeticus in the Corbett Tiger Reserve in Uttarakhand, India alongwith Mugger crocodiles and freshwater turtles.

The Corbett Tiger Reserve harbours the third largest viable population of the Gharial in North India with its uniqueness being in the adaption of the species from one of a free-flowing river system to that of a lake - like environment formed after the damming of the Ramganga River in 1974. 

Over the next few years various research initiatives would be undertaken with this population to understand this adaptability better and eventually draw up an effective Species Management Plan for the Gharial in the State of Uttarakhand.

The MBZ Species Conservation Fund has provided valuable support for Capacity Building of frontline forest staff for basic monitoring of crocodilians in Corbett Tiger Reserve.

The project is an individual effort and is supported by The Gadoli and Manda Khal Wildlife Conservation Trust. 

Project updates are available on The Wildlife Chronicles (http://subirchowfin.blogspot.com)