40 young crocodiles released into the wild in Nepal (VIDEO)
Gharial crocodiles are seen at the reptile breeding farm in Chitwan National Park. The Chitwan National Park released 40 young Gharials into the wild on Wednesday. Chitwan is the first wildlife park in Nepal, and provides a safer environment for endangered species such as the one-horned rhino and the royal bengal tiger.
Forty young crocodiles were released back into the wild in Nepal on Wednesday, as part of the Chitwan National Park breeding center's efforts to save the species.
The breeding center has been trying to boost the Gharial crocodile population for the past six years, BBC News reported.
The Gharial crocodile species has been dwindling because of hunting and a loss of their natural habitat, according to the BBC, and is listed as a critically endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources.
More from GlobalPost: Enormous, shielded crocodile species discovered
The center has two male crocodiles and 13 females, which they attempt to breed, in addition to collecting eggs from around the region. The crocodiles, which grow to be between 4 and 7 meters (or 13 to 23 feet), are raised in artificial ponds. They also have their teeth brushed frequently to help prevent fungus growth, according to the BBC. The Gharial are distinguished by their long snouts, which have a bulbous tip.
More from GlobalPost: For the president who has everything… crocodile attack insurance
When they reach about 6 years old, they can be released into various streams and rivers throughout Chitwan, ITN reported. The breeding center is also a tourist attraction, according to the BBC.