Conservation of Gharial in Nepal
Species: Gange Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus)
Location: Region of the Terai, Nepal
Status of the specie in the area: The last census performed on all the rivers of Nepal in 2008 showed that there were only 81 individuals left, mostly young crocodiles still unable to reproduce.
Term: Fall 2009-Fall 2012
Main actions / short project description
This program aims to contribute to safeguarding the last wild populations of gharials in collaboration with local communities and partners involved in the sustainable management of aquatic environments of Nepal where is the Gange Gharial
The situation is critical, but it is still possible to save the gharial and its habitat. For this, it is urgent to:
- Continue improving scientific knowledge yet too fragmentary to the gharial and its habitat,
- Integrate the management of protected areas of Nepal (Chitwan National Park, Bardia National Park, Wildlife Reserve Koshi Tappu …) favourable steps towards the conservation of gharial,
- Continue to develop steps for ex-situ conservation (breeding centers of Chitwan National Park and Bardia) to increase the population of gharial in Nepal,
- Educate people to preserve their environment through the enhancement of the gharial species as emblematic,
- Contribute in the international context of the Gharial Multi Task Force, to strengthen the conservation of gharial worldwide (partnership with India in particular),
- Establish an effective and operational structure to coordinate the project.
Recent results: In February 2009, 14 young gharials were reintroduced in the Rapti River, which borders the Chitwan National Park. Collared, they are followed by a joint team of rangers and international scientists. The next mission is to provide an update on the survival of gharials after heavy monsoon rains.
Carriers: WWF Nepal (Rinjani) AWELY (Renan Aufray)
Save Your Logo Contribution:
- year 1 : 168 350 $
- year 2 : 156 000 $
- year 3 : 156 000 $
