Gharial Ecology Project

Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus) is a critically endangered crocodilian living in South Asian rivers. The only viable, self-­‐sustaining population inhabits the Chambal River where a mass die-­‐off occurred in 2007-­‐2008.
Gharial Ecology Project with the support of MCBT implementing ecological studies (2008-­‐ 2021 present) of these gharials have been conducted in the National Chambal Sanctuary, utilizing telemetry to record their movements, activities, and behaviours relevant to the die-­‐off, and critical to their conservation. To date, the results reveal new information about gharial spatial habitat use and seasonal movement patterns, as well as social structure and breeding biology. For the first time worldwide, this project provides the biological basis for science-­‐based conservation actions to protect the remaining wild gharials in their natural river habitats. A training/education component develops an awareness of this magnificent species among the river folk it lives with.