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The number of Asiatic Lions at Gir - the only habitat to the endangered species in the World, has increased to 523 showing a growth of 27% from 411 estimated in 2010 Census. As per the 14th Lion Census 2015 conducted during May 2 to May 5, the number of female lion is double the number of male lions, the Gujarat Chief minister Anandiben Patel announced here on Sunday.
The lion presence in the Saurashtra region also doubled from 10,000 sq km in 2010 to 22,000 sq km in 2015.
"I congratulate the Maldharis (local cattle breeders). It is their co-existence with this wild animal has helped in conservation of lion," Patel said in her address. In 2010, the male-female ratio stood at 97-162.
The four-day lion census covered the largest area across Saurashtra. The Census had over 200 volunteer enumerators, which included NRGs, medical doctors, professors, advocates, corporate employees and nature enthusiasts apart from over 2000 forest staffers, and government officials participating in the five-yearly event.
The lion presence increased to four districts with maximum in Junagadh (268), Gir-Somnath (44), Amreli (174) and Bhavnagar (37). Patel informed that maximum population growth was seen Amreli district. The total 523 lions also included 213 cubs.
In 2005, the area covered was 5,000 sq km and estimated the lion population at 300.
The pre-census activities had begun 9 months ago. The Census was based on the sightings and identification through special marks or features of the animal. The lion movements were tracked through GPS, GIS, and trap, still and video cameras. Information such as location of kills has been collected.
About 11 wildlife experts from national and international agencies including WCT, NBWL, and SBWL besides Aligarh Muslim University participated in the Census.
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