Extinct freshwater crocodile sighted in Padma after decades

A freshwater crocodile, declared extinct in Bangladesh in 2000 by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), has been sighted twice this month — first in Rajshahi's Padma River and now in Manikganj's Tantrakhola canal — sparking fear, fascination, and ecological interest.

Wildlife photographer Imrul Kayes and researcher Umme Khadija Eva documented the reptile on 16 October in Rajshahi's Char Majhardia area. Imrul told The Business Standard, "A local shepherd mentioned seeing one in a small creek, but we couldn't find it initially. Just before leaving, I launched a drone and spotted a triangular object in the water. At first, we thought it was driftwood, but as we moved closer, it became clear it was a crocodile. My wife took photos while I captured video and drone footage."

The animal was observed about 450 metres inside Bangladeshi territory, near a section of the Padma connecting to India, suggesting it may have migrated from Indian waters.

Days later, residents of Tantrakhola in Harirampur upazila gathered anxiously along a canal under the midday sun, hoping for a glimpse of another crocodile. Earlier sightings near Dhulsura's Boali and Madborbari ferry ghats had already spread concern. 

Some villagers reportedly tried to hit the animal with sticks or fishing gear, though it remained unharmed. "People are terrified. They've stopped bathing, collecting water, and even fishing in the canals," said local resident Rony Mia.

Harirampur Upazila Forest Officer Md Shariful Islam confirmed the reports after verifying photos and videos. "It is indeed a freshwater crocodile," he said, adding that officials have made multiple visits to locate the animal. 

The Forest Department has informed the Wildlife Crime Control Unit and is conducting awareness campaigns to ensure locals remain calm and do not harm the reptile if it comes ashore.

For nearly a month, residents across Dhulsura, Boali, Ailkundhi, Baburhati, Harukandi, Kashiyakhali, and Tantrakhola have reported sightings in canals and tributaries connected to the Padma. 

Locals say shifting river channels may have drawn the crocodile into smaller waterways. Fishermen admitted fear but continued working, while others altered daily routines to avoid the river. Most villagers believe there is one crocodile, about six to seven feet long, though some suspect more.

Jahangir Kabir, inspector at the Wildlife Management and Nature Conservation Department, said the freshwater crocodile was declared extinct in Bangladesh in 2000. "In recent years, juvenile crocodiles were reported in Charghat, Pabna, and Chapainawabganj. The one seen recently was an adult," he said, suggesting it may have come from India or indicate a natural comeback. 

ABM Sarwar Alam of IUCN Bangladesh noted that previous sightings were later relocated to the Sundarbans, and the newly spotted crocodile likely originated from India's Chambal River. Bangladesh is home to three crocodile species: saltwater crocodiles in the Sundarbans, freshwater crocodiles (declared extinct), and gharials in the Padma and Jamuna rivers.

Prof M Monirul H Khan of Jahangirnagar University emphasised the importance of habitat protection. "Regions along the Padma River are crucial for crocodiles, gharials, and waterbirds. Conserving these areas as protected zones could allow species once lost to return naturally," he said.

The reappearance of freshwater crocodiles highlights both the resilience of regional river ecosystems and the urgent need for public awareness and conservation. 

Officials hope that vigilance, community education, and habitat protection will safeguard both the reptiles and local residents, allowing Bangladesh's lost species to reestablish themselves safely.

For now, villagers from Rajshahi to Harirampur remain watchful, torn between awe and fear, as the return of a long-lost predator signals nature's quiet resilience.