16th Asiatic Lion Census
Kartavya Desk Staff
Source: DD News
Context: Gujarat Chief Minister announced the completion of the 16th Asiatic Lion Population Census, reporting a population of 891 lions.
About 16th Asiatic Lion Census:
• Conducted By: Gujarat Forest Department under the supervision of the State Wildlife Division.
• Total Lion Population: 891 lions, including 196 adult males and rest include females, sub-adults, and cubs.
• Area Coverage: Spanned 35,000 sq km across 58 talukas in 11 districts.
• Census Methodology:
• Conducted in two phases:
• Phase 1: Direct Beat Verification Phase 2: Final Enumeration
• Phase 1: Direct Beat Verification
• Phase 2: Final Enumeration
• Data Insights:
• Notable range expansion beyond Gir forest. Growing habitat connectivity and stable sub-populations outside protected areas.
• Notable range expansion beyond Gir forest.
• Growing habitat connectivity and stable sub-populations outside protected areas.
About Asiatic Lions (Panthera leo persica):
• IUCN Red List: Vulnerable (Recently it was reclassified as Vulnerable from Endangered status)
• CITES: Appendix I
• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I
• Habitat:
• Current Range: Gir National Park and surrounding areas in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat. Historical Range: From West Bengal to Madhya Pradesh in central India, and parts of West Asia.
• Current Range: Gir National Park and surrounding areas in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat.
• Historical Range: From West Bengal to Madhya Pradesh in central India, and parts of West Asia.
• Biological & Physical Features:
• Size: Males: 160–190 kg; Females: 110–120 kg. Height: Approx. 110 cm at shoulder; length up to 2.92 m (including tail). Distinct Feature: A visible belly fold, less prominent mane compared to African lions. Coat Color: Varies from sandy to buff-grey, sometimes with a silvery sheen. Social Structure: Lives in small prides, lesser in size and complexity than African lion groups.
• Size: Males: 160–190 kg; Females: 110–120 kg.
• Height: Approx. 110 cm at shoulder; length up to 2.92 m (including tail).
• Distinct Feature: A visible belly fold, less prominent mane compared to African lions.
• Coat Color: Varies from sandy to buff-grey, sometimes with a silvery sheen.
• Social Structure: Lives in small prides, lesser in size and complexity than African lion groups.