Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary Records Surge in Indian Bison Population, Reinforcing Its Status as ‘Land of Indian Bisons’

Bhubaneswar: Hirakud Wildlife Division have reported a significant increase in the Indian Bison (Gaur) population at the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary. The latest census, conducted over three days from May 11 to 13, 2025, has recorded 788 Indian Bisons, including 315 juveniles and 128 newborns, reinforcing Debrigarh’s growing reputation as the “Land of Indian Bisons.”

This summer census marks a substantial rise from the previous count held in winter (November 12–13, 2024), when the sanctuary recorded 659 Bisons across 52 herds. The current figures show an addition of 129 Bisons and an expansion to 60 herds, suggesting that healthy reproduction rates and strong herd leadership — primarily by adult females — are driving the fragmentation and multiplication of herds.

Juveniles (under 2 years old) now make up about 40% of the total Bison population, pointing to a robust reproductive cycle and a thriving ecosystem. The authorities noted that summer is typically the breeding season for Indian Bisons, especially in central Indian landscapes, while monsoon and winter months often witness peak calving.

To gain deeper insights into the breeding trends and population dynamics of this Schedule-I species, officials plan to conduct monthly surveys during the upcoming monsoon and winter seasons, focusing on tracking the number of newborns. This will help strengthen conservation efforts and further establish Debrigarh’s role as a critical habitat for the Indian Bison, which is considered a flagship species of Indian grassland and forest ecosystems.

The Safari Zone of Debrigarh alone now supports 145 Indian Bisons across six herds, up from 118 individuals in five herds last year. Bisons in this zone are known for their territorial behavior and seasonal movement patterns, traveling 5 to 15 kilometers per day while maintaining relatively stable home ranges.

Sightings of large Bison herds are common both within the Tourism Zone and the Eco-Sensitive Zone near the Hirakud Wetland, making Debrigarh a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers. Despite the potential for long-distance migration, Bisons in this sanctuary exhibit strong site fidelity, further highlighting the ecological richness and habitat stability of Debrigarh.