Rise in Asiatic Lions’ population reported

  • IASbaba
  • June 11, 2020
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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.

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 11th JUNE 2020

Image source: Click here 

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 11th JUNE 2020

Image source: The Hindu 

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