Archive · 17 Jan 2026
Indian Bison Population Rises 28% in Odisha
In Odisha, India, the number of Indian Bison, also known as Gaur, has increased by 28%.
The latest count found 848 bison, including 235 young ones.
These bison live in the Debrigarh Sanctuary, a protected area.
The forest officials conduct a census every six months to keep track of the bison population.
They have created special areas with bamboo and grass for the bison to eat and move around.
The increase in population is a result of good habitat management and conservation efforts.
The bison in this area do not migrate far and stay within a small territory, moving only a few kilometers each day.
Indian Bison population in Odisha's Debrigarh Sanctuary increased by 28% to 848, including 235 juveniles.
The census was conducted over 73 units covering 353 Sq.km and recorded 69 herds with sizes varying from 6 to 25.
Detection probability was around 80%, implying 20% of the population might have been missed due to dense forest and tall grasses.
Species-specific habitat management, including meadows with bamboo brakes, has been implemented to support the bison population.
Census is conducted every 6 months to monitor the breeding pattern and population dynamics of the Indian Bison.
- Who
- Indian Bison (Gaur) in Odisha's Hirakud Wildlife division
- What
- Population increase of 28% recorded in the latest census
- When
- Census concluded on 7 January 2026
- Where
- Debrigarh Sanctuary, Odisha
- Why
- Species-specific habitat management and conservation efforts
- Population Increase
- 28%
- Total Population
- 848
- Juveniles
- 235 (27% of total)
- Herd Size
- 6 to 25
- Census Area
- 353 Sq.km Debrigarh Sanctuary
- Detection Probability
- 80%
- Census Frequency
- Every 6 months
- Habitat
- Meadows with bamboo brakes
