East Coast is a major player in marine conservation, with 765 dolphins recorded in Odisha waters according to the latest statewide survey conducted on 20 January 2026. The survey, conducted by the Wildlife Wing of the Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Department, estimated that there are 497 humpback dolphins, 208 Irrawaddy dolphins, 55 bottlenose dolphins, 3 spinner dolphins, and 2 finless porpoises in the waters off Odisha. It is noteworthy that this is the highest count of marine dolphins in its waters over the last five years.

Regional Distribution and Key Habitats

The dolphin population, compared with that in previous years, is observed to be growing steadily. The 2020-2021 population census recorded 544 dolphins, of which 209 were Irrawaddy dolphins. The population estimates from the succeeding years are as follows: 726 (2021-2022), 733 (2022-2023), 743 (2023-2024), and 710 (2024-2025). The increase in dolphin populations is attributable to effective conservation efforts.

The Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary in Kendrapara really stands out as the main home for Humpback dolphins; 474 of them live there. As for Irrawaddy dolphins, which are critically endangered, most of them stick to Chilika Lake. Out of the state’s 208 Irrawaddy dolphins, 159 call that lake home. A few small groups live in places like Balasore (15), Berhampur (13), Puri (12), and the Rajnagar mangroves (9).

Also Read: Japan’s Spogomi Sport Scores Big In The Fight Against Litter And Pollution

Scientific Monitoring and Conservation Initiatives

The process of estimating the number of dolphins each year was grounded in a robust scientific foundation, supported by combining aerial and ground surveys and protocols to improve species identification and collect more accurate data from both land and water. The involvement of various agencies, local frontline staff, and marine biologists contributed significantly to all aspects of the survey, including data collection and the development of programs to support policies.

According to Prem Kumar Jha, the Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) with the Odisha government, “an important element to the success of long-term conservation is regular and ongoing monitoring and scientific management.” Comprehensive analysis shows that regular, systematic surveys of the marine environment can identify habitat changes and inform measures to preserve the marine biodiversity of Odisha’s coast.

Also Read: 5,000 Invasive Iguanas Euthanised In Florida After Cold Snap

What does the Future Hold for the Dolphins of Odisha?

While the population of the Irrawaddy dolphin in Chilika has remained stable for the past two years due to low reproduction rates and seasonal migration patterns, the total dolphin population in Odisha continues to grow, with healthy populations of Humpback dolphins and other species found along the Odisha coast.

The 2026 census reinforces Odisha’s integrated approach to marine conservation, blending scientific rigor, capacity-building, and community engagement. Ultimately, 765 dolphins recorded in Odisha waters highlight the state’s leadership in marine biodiversity protection and set a model for conservation efforts across India.

Also Read: January 2026 Marks Fifth‑Warmest On Record Despite Europe And North America Cold Snap