In 1975, an area of 672 km2 (259 sq mi) was declared the Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary.

The Gahirmatha Marine Wildlife Sanctuary, which bounds the Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary to the east, was created in September 1997, and encompasses Gahirmatha Beach and an adjacent portion of the Bay of Bengal.

Bhitarkanika Mangroves were designated a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance in 2002.

Reptiles present in the mangroves include saltwater crocodile, king cobra, Indian python and water monitor.

[4] Olive ridley turtles arrive in January to March for nesting at Gahirmatha Beach.