Rise in Asiatic Lions’ population reported

Rise in Asiatic Lions’ population reported

Part of: GS-Prelims and GS-III – Environment; Biodiversity

In News:

• According to June 5, 2020 census, the number of Asiatic lions have now risen by 29% over five years to an estimated 674 in the Gir forest region and other areas of coastal Saurashtra, Gujarat. 
• During 2015, their population was 523 lions. 
• Geographically, distribution area has also increased by 36%.

Important value additions 

Asiatic Lion

• It is a Panthera leo leo population in India.
• Its current range is restricted to the Gir National Park and environs in the Indian state of Gujarat.
• It is one of five pantherine cats inhabiting India. Others are:
  • Bengal tiger
  • Indian leopard 
  • Snow leopard 
  • Clouded leopard
• It is also known as the “Indian lion” and the “Persian lion”. 
• Status: 
  • Listed in Schedule I of Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972
  • Appendix I of CITES
  • Endangered on IUCN Red List.
• It is slightly smaller than African lions.
• The most striking morphological character is a longitudinal fold of skin running along belly of Asiatic Lions.

Image source: Click here 

Image source: The Hindu