Why in News?
The Asiatic Lion (Panthera leo persica), found in Gujarat’s Gir Forest, is a critically endangered subspecies. Explore its habitat, conservation efforts, and challenges to survival
Description:
- Scientific Name: Panthera leo persica
- Unique Feature: Longitudinal belly fold (absent in African lions).
- Social Unit: Smaller prides (2–3 females) vs African (4–6 females).
- Current IUCN Status (2025): Vulnerable.
- CITES: Appendix I.
Distribution & Population:
- Exclusive to India – mainly in Gir National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary, Gujarat.
- Lion Census 2020 (Gujarat Forest Dept.):
- 674 lions in ~30,000 sq km across 9 districts & 53 talukas of Saurashtra.
- Once ranged across West Asia & Middle East – now extinct outside India.
Habitat:
- Dry deciduous forests, scrublands, savannas.
- Major protected habitats:
- Gir National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary (Est. 1965, 1,412 sq km core + 470 sq km buffer = 1,882 sq km)
- Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary (Est. 2008, Junagadh district) – extension habitat.
Asiatic vs. African Lion:
| Feature | Asiatic Lion | African Lion |
| Size | Slightly smaller | Larger |
| Mane | Shorter, less developed | Fuller, denser |
| Social Behaviour | Males stay with pride | Males usually leave pride |
| Habitat | Dry deciduous forest (India only) | Savannas, shrublands, deserts |
| Distribution | Gujarat only | Widespread Sub-Saharan Africa |
| IUCN Status | Vulnerable | Vulnerable |
| CITES Listing | Appendix I | Appendix II |
| Protection (India) | WPA 1972 – Schedule I | – |
Conservation Efforts:
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 – Schedule I (maximum protection).
- Project Lion (2020):
- Create a second free-ranging population in Kuno-Palpur, MP.
- Strengthen disease surveillance, habitat management, community participation.
- Relocation Challenges: Political resistance, ecological suitability debates.
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