Gujarat's iconic Asiatic lion, once teetering on the edge of extinction, is roaring back stronger than ever. A fresh census reveals 891 lions now roam western India - a 32% rise from 674 recorded in 2020 - reflecting what conservationists hail as one of the most successful big cat recoveries globally. Forest officials said Wednesday that over half the population - 507 lions - live outside traditional strongholds of Gir national park and wildlife sanctuary.
CM Bhupendra Patel announced the official figures, celebrating the increase as a "shot in the arm" for conservation efforts. Forest department sources detailed the breakdown: 196 males, 330 females, 140 sub-adults, and 225 cubs.
In contrast, IUCN warns lion populations across northern Africa and southwestern Asia continue to decline due to human pressures and shrinking habitats.
CM Bhupendra Patel announced the official figures, celebrating the increase as a "shot in the arm" for conservation efforts. Forest department sources detailed the breakdown: 196 males, 330 females, 140 sub-adults, and 225 cubs.
In contrast, IUCN warns lion populations across northern Africa and southwestern Asia continue to decline due to human pressures and shrinking habitats.
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