The range of the Asiatic Lion once extended throughout Asia-Minor and into Eastern Europe but loss of habitat and persecution from man relentlessly reduced their numbers until today, the only remaining population is in the Gir Forest, a patch of remnant forest in the Saurashtra Peninsula of Gujarat. Thanks to the protection afforded to animals by the former Nawabs of Junagadh the lions managed to survive here through decades of slaughter elsewhere in the country and granting of National Park status in 1975 further ensured their continued preservation. An estimated 327 Lions roam the 141,000 hectares of the sanctuary and maintain an uneasy relationship with a significant population of Maldhari tribesmen settled within the reserve boundaries along with their 20,000 head of cattle.
These stunning images were taken by Naturetrek tour leader Raghu Kulkarni on the Naturetrek Ultimate Mammal tour this February. Owing to their limited range this species can only be seen on two Naturetrek holidays. To find out more about each one click on the links below.
India - Asiatic Lions & Wild Asses
A 14-day wildlife tour to Gujarat in search of Asiatic Lions and the endangered Asiatic Wild Ass.
India's Ultimate Mammal Tour
A unique, 20-day holiday, crossing the breadth of India in search of as many of the country's 450 mammal species as possible. The Asiatic Lions and Wild Asses of Gujarat, Tigers of Kanha, and the Indian Rhinoceros and wild Water Buffalo of Kaziranga are likely to be amongst the highlights!
