Charotar Crocodile Count is an initiative led by Voluntary Nature Conservancy. It embarks on a journey to establish a mugger crocodile population index in Gujarat’s Charotar region with a mission to contribute in preserving the natural heritage of this unique ecosystem.
Event's Focus
Launched in 2013, the Charotar Crocodile Count is a pioneering conservation effort in Gujarat’s Charotar Region, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds to protect the mugger crocodile and its wetland habitat. This annual event invites volunteers to participate in a vital crocodile census, enhancing our understanding of these reptiles and their ecological role.
More than just a count, the event fosters community engagement by combining scientific research with local insights. Volunteers track and document crocodile populations, building connections with communities that live alongside these creatures.
As Gujarat’s first initiative of its kind, the Charotar Crocodile Count has provided crucial data to wildlife managers and researchers. Now in its twelfth year, the 2025 count, co-hosted by VNC and CHARUSAT, will feature new training programs aimed at cultivating the next generation of conservation leaders.
The Citizen Science Approach
At the heart of the Charotar Crocodile Count is the Citizen Science approach—a dynamic way to engage the public in scientific research. By becoming “Citizentists,” participants contribute their time and efforts to assist scientists in gathering and analyzing data.
This collaborative effort enables the collection of extensive data that would be challenging to obtain otherwise, enhancing our understanding of crocodile populations and their habitats.
Why Participate?
It allows you to make a meaningful contribution to the conservation of crocodiles and their vital wetland habitat. Your involvement is crucial for collecting valuable data that supports ongoing conservation efforts.
Beyond contributing to conservation, the event offers a chance to learn and grow through hands-on experience and training. You’ll gain insights into crocodile behavior and wetland ecology while connecting with a network of passionate conservationists and local communities.
Our team
Meet The Team
About Organizer
Located in Vallabh Vidyanagar town of Gujarat, VNC has been working actively since its inception with its primary objectives to inculcate love for the environment and appreciate sustainable living. Started with the idea of sharing the simple joys of bird watching, cycling in the midst of nature, and enjoying being in nature’s lap, VNC has grown into an organisation whose working areas now broadly include Environment Education, Research & Conservation, and Awareness & Advocacy. VNC tries to fill up the prevailing gap that exists in the society and education system for environment education and learning, and conducts extensive educational programs in schools and colleges.
Harnessing Expertise for Conservation
VNC has been hosting Charotar Crocodile Count for over 12 years now, with the help of experts, scientists, researchers, and volunteers.
Years
Crocodiles Spotted During Each Event
Participants
People Reached