Crocodilian Awareness Initiative

Two globally threatened crocodilian species: the Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) and Mugger (Crocodylus palustris) occur in the Bardia National Park (BNP) of Nepal. From a conservation perspective, BNP seems to be an ideal site to ensure long-term survival of crocodilians. However, given the status of crocodilians in Nepal, the Crocodile Specialist Group (CSG) has accorded the need for conducting conservation education and awareness programs as a ‘high priority’ to ensure their long-term conservation. Lack of awareness, undoubtedly, has posed a major constraint to conservation of these crocodilians in BNP and ensuring their long-term survival necessitates support from multitude of stakeholders who can directly and indirectly contribute to this cause.

The overarching purpose of this project is to promote conservation of crocodilians and their critical habitats in BNP of Nepal via application of multitude of communication, education and public awareness tools/programs. We will be conducing conservation education programs in schools, awareness programs in local communities, legislative workshop for local leaders as well as advocate crocodilian conservation using online social media to achieve our purpose. With this project, we aim to reach at least 1500 students and 150 teachers from 15 schools, 500 locals in 10 communities, 100 local leaders and numerous followers/supporters via dedicated Facebook page. Upon the completion of this project, we aim to set up platform for crocodilian conservation by gaining support of all relevant stakeholders whose contribution is critical in this endeavor.

Funding Agencies: The Rufford Foundation

Click here to learn more about PI of this project- Mr. Prakash Kiran Jung Thapa, and his work.