Gharial Ecology Project

The gharial is a critically endangered crocodilian whose distribution in Nepal is restricted to isolated populations in some rivers in Chitwan National Park and Bardia National Park (BNP). Given their critically endangered status, it is surprising that no serious conservation program has been directed by the Government towards conserving gharial in BNP. As a result, current conservation status of gharials in BNP remains largely unknown. The overarching purpose of this study is to assess the conservation status of gharial populations in the BNP, and the secondary purpose is to promote gharial conservation via education, training, and outreach programs.To accomplish aforementioned purposes, we will conduct population survey, characterize gharial habitat, and assess current threats in addition to conducting conservation education programs and trainings.Findings from this study will fill in gaps that have long existed for populations of gharials in BNP by facilitating an assessment of their conservation status.

Funding Agencies: Cleveland Metroparks and Zoo, Cleveland Zoological Society, Nagao Natural Environmental Foundation