Dolphins, crocodiles reproduce naturally in Kailali rivers

BY ABINASH CHAUDHARY,Dhangadhi, July 14: While Nepal invests heavily in protected areas to breed wildlife, three rare aquatic species are naturally reproducing in the rivers of Kailali. 

Dolphins, gharial crocodiles, and mugger crocodiles have all been observed raising their young in the wild without human intervention. Both dolphins and mugger crocodiles are listed as endangered species on the IUCN Red List. Conservationists report that the young of all three species are currently growing in the Mohana, Patharaiya and Karnali rivers.

Dolphin conservationist Bhojraj Dhungana confirmed sightings of baby dolphins alongside adult ones in the Mohana River, suggesting that they were likely born there. “These calves, just a few days old, are seen swimming with their mothers,” said Dhungana. Dolphins, being mammals, give birth and are known to migrate to clean rivers to raise their young.

Similarly, rare gharials have nested and are raising hatchlings naturally in all three rivers. 

In contrast to the government-funded breeding programmes in Chitwan and Bardiya National Parks, the gharials in Kailali require no financial support. Patharaiya has shown a higher number of hatchlings this year compared to Karnali, where only one nest was successful. Dhungana said that low sand levels may have hindered other nests.

Aggressive and territorial mugger crocodiles are also nurturing their young in the Mohana River. Their increasing presence in the district’s lower riverine areas is attributed to successive breeding seasons in recent years.

According to conservationist Vijaya Raj Shrestha, rivers of Kailali provide a safe natural habitat and an abundant food supply, making it an ideal environment for these rare species to thrive. “They find food, shelter, and space to roam, while also teaching their young how to hunt,” he said. “Though Kailali is not a designated protected area, it continues to host several endangered aquatic species.”