Asiatic Lion
Scientific Name: Panthera Leo Persica
Estimated Population: Ministry of environment and forest of India has tabled its recent report according to which there are an estimated number of 250 Asiatic Lions in the wild the country.
Asiatic Lions are the largest Indian cats. An average Asiatic Lion, also known as the Indian Lion, is generally 2.5 meter to 2.9 meter tall, and weighs between 200 to 250 kg.
Asiatic lions are relatives of the most endangered carnivores, which are found throughout the globe. Now in India, the Gir National Park & Lion Sanctuary is only left habitat of this proud and majestic species. However, there is plan to transfer this highly dangerous but rare animal to Kuno sanctuary in M.P. (Central Indian Provinces).
The
Asiatic Lions are lazy and indolent creatures that prey on the
Sambar, Chital, Nilgai, Wild Pig, and occasionally on
goats and
camels.
Lion males often live in pairs that last a lifetime.
However, in the pride it is the females who go out hunting in packs
and bring back prey, which is first devoured by the male, and only
then by the rest of the pack. In the daytime, they live close to
water holes and rest in the shade. Hunting is relegated to dusk, or
at night.
At one time the estimated number of lions went
down to as low as thirty. However, due to the efforts of the
authorities and the
Gir National Park, the
Asiatic lion has been
narrowly saved from extinction. Though it is still a highly
endangered species, statistics show that if efforts are kept up,
their numbers might begin to improve.
