The Elephant Census Report 2015 of Odisha

Date of Release: 29 June 2015.

Released by:  Forest and Environment Minister Bikram Keshari Arukh.

According to the report– In 2015, the population of Elephants in Odisha has been increased from 1930(recorded in 2012 Census) to 1954 (recorded in 2015). The highest number of elephants, 487 ,found in Similipal Tiger Reserve and second largest number in Satkosia Tiger Reserve with 234 elephants.

 Findings of the census

• Mayurbhanj, Mahanadi and Sambalpur which are hub to Elephants- a total of 1450 elephants (74.21%) were recorded.
  In 5 other sanctuaries- 102 elephants (5.22%).
  Outside Elephant Reserves- 402 elephants (20.57%).
  The Ratio of  Female:Male:Young elephants- 3.2:1:1.4, approx
• In 2015, there are 27 elephants the sex of which couldn’t be identified.
• In comparison to 2012 Census
  •  the male population recorded is more by 7 .
  •  female population is more by 9
  •   the unknown sex recorded is less by 19 elephants and young more by 27.
• The total population records an increase by 24 elephants in the present census.

The report is based on the following reserves:

• Mayurbhanj elephant reserve comprises of
  •  Similipal Tiger Reserve
  • Rairangpur, Baripada
  • Balasore Wildlife
  • Keonjhar Wildlife Divisions.
• Mahanadi elephant reserve comprises of
  •  Satkosia Wildlife
  • Mahanadi Wildlife
  • Angul, Dhenkanal
  • Athgarh
  • Athmallik
  • Boudh
  • Nayagarh
  •  Cuttack Divisions.
• Sambalpur elephant reserve comprises of
  •  Jharsuguda
  • Sambalpur
  • Bamra Willdife Bonai
  •  Rairakhol Divisions.