Population Dynamics, Group Structure and Natural Dispersal of Asiatic Lions

Gir forest in Saurashtra region of Gujarat is synonymous with Asiatic Lion. Recognising the serious danger to the Lion and pitiable condition of Gir Maldharis in 1972, the Gir Lion Sanctuary Project was implemented for five years which resulted into improvement of habitat and wildlife. Lion number increased from 177 in 1968 to 304 in 1995. Availability of major ungulates increased from 53.5 ungulates per lion to 125.9 ungulates per lion. Studies indicate that food pattern of lion has changed in favour of wild animal from 25% in 1972 to 65% in 1990. Improvement ofthe Gir forests and increase in wildlife population have brought major change in social behaviour and reduction in size of groups of lion. Asiatic Lion started migrating from Gir forests to neighbouring forests in search of food and space. Dispersal paths of the Asiatic Lion at present are almost similar to the extinction path adopted during the beginning of this century. There are four satellitic population oflions in Girnar, Mitiyala and Coastal forests outside the Gir. It has become necessary to expand present Gir forests to new areas by covering Girnar, Mitiyala, Barda, Coastal forests, grasslands to manage increasing lion population as well as maintaining ecological security of the region.