Bhitarkanika is located in the second largest mangrove forest in the country, the sanctuary has protected the estuarine crocodile since 1975. Bhitarkanika in Orissa is the growing tip of the ever increasing delta formed by the alluvial deposits of sacred river, Brahmani, Baitarani and Dhamra. The land on the sea front is capped with a unique vegetation Mangroves which are equipped with adaptations such as pneumatophores and hypocotyle to survive in saline and brackish condition . Out of seventy two species of mangroves identified in the world, sixty three species are found in Bhitarkanika.

The mangroves support rich marine life including crabs, prawns, mudskippers and fishes which forms the base of biological pyramid. They sustain a wide range of reptiles like estuarine crocodile , water monitor, python, king cobra, kraits, other snakes and mammals such as chittal, wild pig, porcupine, fishing cat, hyena, mongoose, otter etc. and more than 190 species of birds. This speaks abut the rich bio-diversity of the area. Evergreen mangroves yield plenty of honey too. Bhitarkanika river through its serpentine passage, with mangrove tree canopy forming the fringe on either side offers picturesque beauty, which can be appreciated during boat ride.