GHARIAL

About: 

• Scientific name : Gavialis Gangeticu. 
  
  
• Features: Compared to alligators and crocodiles, a gharial has a very long and narrow snout (instead of a broad snout). 
  
  
• Habitat: They are a fresh-water crocodile. They live in deep fast-flowing rivers. 
  
  
• Distribution: Globally Gharial is found only in India and Nepal. In India too, the major ‘breeding’ populations are confined to two rivers only: 
  • Girwa : The Girwa River originates in Nepal and runs through Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary. 
    
    
  • Chambal : Chambal supports the largest population of Gharials in the wild. 
    
    
  
  
  
• IUCN Conversation status : critically endangered. 
  
  
• Significance in Hindu Culture: To some, it is the vahana or vehicle of the River Goddess Ma Ganga, while others revere it as the vahana of varuna, the god of water.