The story of the Asiatic Lion is probably one of India’s finest conservation miracles.
Historically, the Asiatic Lion was found across the Middle East, Eurasia and the Indian Subcontinent. However, extensive trophy hunting in the 19th century In fact, in the mid 20th century, the Asiatic population was less than 50 individuals!
Fortunately over the decades, conservation efforts have proven fruitful. As of the 2020 census, the lion population has skyrocketed to 674 individuals, a 29% increase from the 2015 census. Unofficial records estimate upwards of 800 individuals. Beyond lions, Gir is one of the best places in India to spot leopards and is a birding paradise. This is one of the most interesting biodiversity hotspots in India.
However, the battle is long but one. Asiatic lions are still only found in one region. In fact, the population is well above the ecological carrying capacity of Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary. The lions of Gir have expanded their range well beyond the boundaries og Gir National Park across Girnar. This increases the risk of human-wildlife conflict. Furthermore, the species is under threat of epidemics and inbreeding. Translocation of lions to other parts of India is crucial!
There is also scope of translocating lions from certain parts of Africa. In 2015, the taxonomy of lion subspecies was reshuffled based on newfound evolutionary evidence. The lions of India, West and north Central Africa have been identified as a single subspecies, seperate from the other African lions. In West and Central Africa the species is restricted to fragmented and isolated populations with a declining trajectory. Translocations of lions between the three population is crucial for maintaining genetic diversity.
Asiatic Lion vs African Lion
For those who were not aware that lions are found in India, let us talk about African Lion and Asiatic Lion differences. Asiatic lions are significantly smaller than their African cousins, and also posses shorter and sparser mane. Asiatic lions also form smaller prides and have smaller territories.
Nonetheless, to learn more about biodiversity and conservation, do check us out on:
The Think Wildlife Podcast: open.spotify.com/show/3zn9Z29...
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Негізгі бет Ойын-сауық Lions of Gujarat | Gir National Park, Gujarat | 2023
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