Three-Day Dolphin Census Underway at Odisha's Chilika Lake

A three-day dolphin census began at Odisha's Chilika Lake, Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, involving 18 teams equipped with drones, GPS, binoculars, and range finders. The exercise, coordinated by the Chilika Wildlife Division and Development Authority, covers 1,165 sq km across Balugaon and Satapada. The census aims to assess dolphin population, distribution, and habitat use, with previous counts recording 174 dolphins. Boat services are suspended during morning hours to minimize disturbance.