From 284 lions (1990) to 891 (2025), India witnessed a 70% rise in the population of Asiatic lion over the last decade.
About Asiatic Lion
- Habitat: Dry deciduous forest and open grassy scrublands in southwestern part of Saurashtra region of Gujarat.
- At present Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is their only abode.
- Conservation Status: Vulnerable (IUCN); Schedule I (Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972); Appendix I (CITES).
- Key Characteristics of Asiatic Lion: Slightly smaller than African lions. Have no particular breeding season.
Key Conservation Efforts for Asiatic Lions
- Project Lion (2020): Focusing on Habitat improvement, monitoring through advanced technologies like radio-collaring and camera traps, and addressing human-wildlife conflict.
- Greater Gir Concept: Expanding lion habitats beyond Gir to areas like Girnar, Pania, and Mitiyala.
- International Big Cats Alliance: Reinforces the global commitment to conserving big cats, including lions.
- Covered under Species Recovery Programme, part of Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats Scheme.
About Barda Wildlife Sanctuary
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