Vadodara: A recent crocodile census conducted along a 25-kilometre stretch of the Vishwamitri River in the city has recorded an estimated 417 crocodiles, according to preliminary findings.

The census was carried out on February 7, 2026, by dividing the 25-km river stretch into 10 zones. The exercise was conducted jointly by the Zoology Department, NGOs and the Forest Department.

Providing details, Prof. Dr. Ranjitsinh Devkar from the Faculty of Science at Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda said volunteers from the Zoology Department, Forest Department and NGOs participated in the counting process.

The census was conducted between 9 am and 11 am and again between 8 pm and 10 pm. During the day, crocodiles were counted using the direct sighting method, while at night, identification was carried out by spotting the glow of their eyes.

According to the preliminary report, 417 crocodiles inhabit the 25-kilometre stretch of the river. The highest concentration — 103 crocodiles — was recorded in the stretch between Kalaghoda and Narhari Hospital.

Officials said the data analysis is still ongoing, and the final report is yet to be released.

For comparison, the crocodile population in the Vishwamitri River was recorded at 212 in 2020, increased to 447 in 2025, and now stands at 417 in 2026, as per the latest preliminary count. DeshGujarat