Kendrapara: The Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha’s Kendrapara district reopened for visitors today.

It had remain closed from January 2 to 10. In view of influx of migratory birds on the shores of rivers and water courses flowing in Bhitarkanika this winter, the authorities had decided to keep it closed for counting the birds as well as the number of Baula (saltwater crocodiles).

During census of birds and crocodiles, the tourists were prohibited to enter the national park, which is surrounded by Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, for nine days.

Notably, the national park was also closed for visitors from May 1 to July 31, last year during breeding season of the saltwater crocodiles.

Bhitarkanika is home to many estuarine crocodiles, white crocodiles, snakes and many other species of flora and fauna.