Gir National Park – The Last Refuge of Asiatic Lions, Lion Census 2020

Gir National Park, also known as Sasan Gir, is a critical sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts. Situated in Gujarat, this park is renowned for being the last refuge of the Asiatic lion. Established in 1965, Gir National Park has played a significant role in wildlife conservation in India. This comprehensive guide will delve into the park’s location, wildlife, conservation efforts, and significance for UPSC and State PSC notes.

Location

• Situated halfway between Veraval and Junagadh in Gujarat, India.
• Encompasses a 1412 sq.km sanctuary, including a 259-sq-km core area declared as a national park in 1975.
• Located 43 km north-east of Somnath, 65 km south-east of Junagadh, and 60 km south-west of Amreli.

Historical Background

• Established in 1965 in the erstwhile Nawab of Junagarh’s private hunting area.
• Initially covering a total area of 1,410.30 km2, now protected as both a national park and wildlife sanctuary.
• Part of the Khathiar-Gir dry deciduous forests ecoregion.

Wildlife in Gir National Park

• Last refuge of the Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica).
• Home to 37 other mammal species, including:
  • Chital (spotted deer)
  • Sambar (large deer)
  • Nilgai (blue bull/large antelopes)
  • Chousingha (four-horned antelopes)
  • Chinkara (gazelles)
  • Crocodiles
  • Rarely seen leopards
• A haven for bird watchers with over 300 bird species, mostly residents.

Devalia Safari Park

• Alternative for lion encounters if permits for Gir are unavailable.
• A 4.12-sq-km fenced-off area within the sanctuary where sightings are guaranteed.
• Offers 45-minute bus tours with chances to see lions, leopards, foxes, mongoose, and blackbuck.

Human Community

• Historically inhabited by the Maldhari (herders) community.
• Many resettled due to competition for food resources and predation by lions and leopards.
• About 1000 people still live in the park, with their livestock making up a quarter of the lions’ diet.

Lion Population 2020

• According to the 2020 lion census in India, the population of Asiatic lions in the Gir forest region was estimated to be 674.
• The 2015 census recorded 523 lions, a 27% increase from 2010.
• Numbers have increased from less than 200 in the late 1960s to 674 in the 2020 census.
• Distribution in 2015 included:
  • 268 in Junagadh District
  • 44 in Gir Somnath District
  • 174 in Amreli District
  • 37 in Bhavnagar District
  • Population included 109 males, 201 females, and 213 cubs.

• The park is closed annually from June 16 to October 15 during the monsoon season.

List of National Parks in India

Gir National Park offers a unique and enriching experience for wildlife enthusiasts, bird watchers, and nature lovers. Its successful conservation efforts have made it a sanctuary for the majestic Asiatic lion and a diverse array of other wildlife species.

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