Archive · 30 May 2025
Asiatic Lion Census Reveals Growth Amidst Human-Wildlife Challenges
Imagine lions living near people in India!
A recent count showed their numbers are up.
They have spread out a lot over the years, but now they're close to farms and towns.
Sometimes, they eat farm animals.
Experts are a bit worried about how close the lions and people are getting.
The government is working on a plan to keep lions safe for a long time.
They are also working to protect the places where the lions live, making sure there's enough space for both lions and people.
Asiatic lion population increased by 32% in the 2025 census, totaling 891 lions.
Lion territory has expanded 430% since 1990, but population growth was previously stunted.
Lions are increasingly found near human areas, preying on livestock and competing for habitat with leopards.
The Gujarat forest department is implementing 'Project Lion@2047' for long-term conservation.
Concerns exist about habitat fragmentation due to infrastructure development near lion corridors.
- Who
- The Gujarat forest department conducted the census and wildlife experts analyzed the data.
- What
- The 2025 census revealed an increase in the Asiatic lion population and expansion of their territory.
- When
- The Asiatic Lion census was conducted in mid-May 2025.
- Where
- The census took place in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat, India.
- Why
- The census helps assess lion population, distribution, and the impact of human-wildlife interactions.
- 2025 Lion Population
- 891
- Lion Territory Size (2025)
- 35,000 sq km
- Lion Population Increase (past 10 years)
- 70.36%
- Combined Big Cat Population (lions & leopards)
- 1,886
- Human Deaths (2015-2024)
- 35
- Distance from Gir Forest to Barda Wildlife Sanctuary
- 100 km