Wednesday, December 24, 2014

Now, Barda Dungar has a lion gene pool

9-12-2014
Now, Barda Dungar has a lion gene pool

The Times Of India

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/Now-Barda-Dungar-has-a-lion-gene-pool/articleshow/45421356.cms
AHMEDABAD: After the success of the gene pool experiment at Rampara Virdi, the forest department has started one more gene pool at Barda Dungar, situated on the boundaries of Porbandar and Jamnagar.

So far, six new cubs have survived in the last couple of years at Rampara Virdi. These cubs belong to a separate gene pool. The gene pool was set up after experts had earlier sounded an alert, saying that inbreeding had weakened the unique wild cat's genetic structure.

Officials said that two pairs of lions from completely different areas were captured and brought to Rampara and now to Barda to ensure that the genes differed. "If the lioness is from Sasan, the lion would be from a far-off area of Tulsishyam and even Bhavnagar," a forest official told TOI.

Officials said the Rampara Virdi was the first in the gene pool experiment series and after successful documentation, the state government decided to have one more gene pool at Barda Dungar. In Barda also, the two pairs have already been shifted and they have come close to each other and are also engaged in mating. Officials are keeping a close watch on the development in Barda.

Officials said that among concerns raised by experts, a study by Stephen J O'Brien, chief of the laboratory of viral carcinogenesis, 
National Cancer Institute in Maryland, revealed: "A limited sample of Gir lion from Sakkarbaug zoo revealed high levels of spermatozoal abnormalities. These results affirm the hypothesis that genetic diminishment of natural population may have unfavourable physiological effect such as increased spermatozoal abnormalities."

Experts say inbreeding and loss of genetic variation decrease the ability of wild populations to adapt to climatic changes and make them vulnerable to new diseases, parasites and pollutants.

Officials said that the gene pools are a long-term measure to help conserve genetic diversity. This is captive conservation of lions.

According to them, inbreeding has always been a concern. This could lead to deterioration in genes and rise in diseases harming the animals. "The gene pools will help us monitor and create healthy specimens," said a senior official involved in the project.

Lioness Jimmy, the last big cat of Byculla Zoo, dies

8-12-2014
Lioness Jimmy, the last big cat of Byculla Zoo, dies
Zee News

http://zeenews.india.com/news/eco-news/lioness-jimmy-the-last-big-cat-of-byculla-zoo-dies_1511607.html

Mumbai: Jimmy, a 16-year-old lioness in Jijamata Udyan, a zoo at Byculla in central Mumbai, died Monday after prolonged illness, an official said.

 The African-Asiatic hybrid lioness, which was the only big cat in the zoo, had been removed from public display and shifted to the zoo hospital a couple of years back, after she suffered paralysis and osteoarthritis.

"We had shifted the lioness to the zoo hospital after she was diagnosed with degenerative myelopathy. In this condition, both her hind legs had stopped responding due to paralysis and osteoarthritis," Anil Anjankar, director of Jijamata Zoo told PTI.

Jimmy was born at the same zoo to African lion Amar and Asiatic lioness Anita on March 28, 1998, he added.

According to the official, it will be another year before a new lion is brought to the zoo.

"Lions, tigers and leopards are known to attract many visitors. We have got approval for an Asiatic lion. The layout is also ready, but that will take at least another year to come," he said.

Lions generally live for 15-20 years, Anjankar said.  

 

No sign of Gir transfer, MP seeks to shift zoo lions to Kuno

5-12-2014

No sign of Gir transfer, MP seeks to shift zoo lions to Kuno
Times of India

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Home/Environment/Flora-Fauna/No-sign-of-Gir-transfer-MP-seeks-to-shift-zoo-lions-to-Kuno/articleshow/45379624.cms

BHOPAL: A year after Madhya Pradesh won an eight-year legal battle with Gujarat government to translocate a few Gir lions to its Kuno-Palpur wildlife sanctuary, the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government seems to have given up hope of getting the prized predators and is now looking to have zoo lions from the south released into the sanctuary. 

The state government has decided to translocate Hyderabad-bred Asiatic lions to the Kuno reserve in Sheopur district, instead of waiting for the Gir lions, whose relocation was opposed by Narendra Modi when he was the chief minister of Gujarat. 

Gir is the only place in the world where the Asiatic lion survives in the wild. The idea behind the Kuno-Palpur project was to raise a buffer population of wild lions as an insurance against epidemics or natural disasters wiping out the Gir lions. 

In August this year, the Gujarat government's curative petition against the shifting of Gir lions too was dismissed by the Supreme Court. 

As CM, Modi had refused to entertain any request from the Chouhan government to shift the lions till the apex court on April 15, 2013, set a six-month deadline to the environment ministry to relocate the predators to Kuno. The court held that the species was under the threat of extinction and needed a second home. But the court's order has not been followed. 

Government sources in Hyderabad told TOI that the MP forest department had approached them asking for pure breed Asiatic lions, bred in captivity, for the Kuno reserve. 

Asked about the move, state chief wildlife warden Narendra Kumar said, "It would be too early to comment." Other senior forest officers in the state, however, confirmed they have decided to shift lions from Hyderabad zoo to Madhya Pradesh. 

But the Kuno project might take time to kick off, following global concern over the recent death of the Asiatic lion pair — Lakshmi and Vishnu — at Etawah's lion safari in Uttar Pradesh. The two zoo-bred lions died within a month of relocation from Hyderabad, said sources. Both suffered 'multiple infections', including viral infection that caused paralysis. The Etawah safari was a pet project of the Samajwadi Party government, which started two months ago. The lions were brought to Kanpur zoo from Hyderabad in April, 2013, and shifted to Etawah safari in September 2014. 

(MP has sought zoo-bred Asiatic lions from Hyderabad.)

In May, the MP government sent its second reminder to the Union ministry of environment and forests (MoEF) to take urgent measures to shift lions from Gujarat to Kuno. More reminders were sent to additional director general (ADG) wildlife, (MoEF), who heads the 12-member committee formed to execute the translocation. 

The move to relocate big cats, first mooted in 2000, had been hanging fire because Gujarat steadfastly refused to part with the majestic lions. 

Times View 

The reported move to release zoo-bred lions in the Kuno-Palpur sanctuary neither makes sense from the conservation standpoint nor would it be safe for the translocated animals. It's well documented that animals bred in captivity do not adapt well in the wild. Moreover, the idea behind Kuno-Palpur was to have a second home for Gir lions so that epidemics and natural disasters do not finish off this last surviving wild population of Asiatic lions. The Supreme Court has turned down Gujarat's curative plea against the transfer of Gir lions to the sanctuary. The MP government should be asking for the court's orders to be implemented, instead of thinking up such disastrous schemes.

Tuesday, December 02, 2014

Asiatic lion may continue to be in endangered category

01-12-2014
Asiatic lion may continue to be in endangered category
The Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/Asiatic-lion-may-continue-to-be-in-endangered-category/articleshow/45340099.cms

AHMEDABAD: The Asiatic lion, which is listed in endangered category in red list released by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), will continue to be critically endangered as the population of breeding male and female has not crossed 500. The last census has 411 population and the next census due next year will have around 500 lions, including the cubs.

It was in 2011 that the report of the IUCN based on 2008 field survey and the 2005 census has stated that the Asiatic lion exists as a single isolated population in Gujarat, numbering approximately 175 mature individuals, all occurring within one sub-population (but in four separate areas, three of which are outside the Gir forest protected area).

Since the population now extends beyond the boundary of the lion sanctuary, and the numbers are stable, the sub-species is listed as endangered based simply on the population size.

Officials said that as per the other criteria the lion population was increasing, they were found in separate areas and hence it qualified to be in the vulnerable category. But just because the population was 411 as per the 2010 census, the lion was listed in endangered category.

Officials said that Asiatic lion will continue to be in the endangered category till the time the breeding population was over 500. Generally the lion breeding begins at the age of 3.5 years. Officials said that as per the 2010 census there were 97 males and 162 females which was around 259 adult male and female lions. This meant that around 63% of the population was breeding population . Officials said that all eyes were on the 2015 census which would reveal the exact size of the population and the area covered by the lions. It is estimated that the lion territory was spread around 20,000 sq km area.

 

Wednesday, November 26, 2014

Maldharis who shot lioness video helped rescue it, say Gir forest officials

25-11-2014
Maldharis who shot lioness video helped rescue it, say Gir forest officials

The INDIAN Express

http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/maldharis-who-shot-lioness-video-helped-rescue-it-say-gir-forest-officials/
A DAY after a video showing a man "teasing" a lioness went viral on social media, the Gujarat forest department said it was no mischief and was shot by two maldharis (herdsmen) who had helped forest officers track the carnivore.

"The video was shot by two maldharis on December 30, 2013 in Jasadhar range of Gir East division. They found the animal paralysed. While one of them tried to assess the its weakness by touching its tail, the other one shot the action on his cellphone. They informed forest officers and the lioness was taken to Jasadhar Animal Care centre late that evening," chief conservator of forests in Junagadh wildlife circle R L Meena said, adding that media had misunderstood the clipping.

In his report to higher authorities, Anshuman Sharma, deputy conservator of forests of Gir East division, identified the two maldharis as Kanu Vala and Shiva Lakhantra. The report said that Vala found the lioness in Tarbheti Taliya area of the forest and concluded that it was ill. He informed his uncle Lakhantra, who contacted forest officers. However, a trackers party from Jasadhar could not locate the big cat, the report states.

"In the evening, Vala took Lakhantra to the spot where the lioness had been lying. They found the lioness at the same spot. Lakhantra went closer to the lioness and checked with it with his stick. To assess its condition, he lifted its tail. Vala shot all this on his cellphone," Sharma said, referring to Vala's statement.

After local dailies reported on the video, state forests Minister Mangubhai Patel ordered an inquiry and sought a report within three days.
The DCF has forwarded his report to the state's Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and a copy of the same is available with The Indian Express.

 

Monday, November 24, 2014

'Fear of extinction of Asiatic lions from Gir not scientific'

22-11-2014
'Fear of extinction of Asiatic lions from Gir not scientific'
Business Standard
http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/fear-of-extinction-of-asiatic-lions-from-gir-not-scientific-114112200406_1.html

Rajya Sabha MP Parimal Nathwani said here that scientific facts do not support the fear of extinction of Asiatic lions from Gir national park in Gujarat and emphasised on the need to create awareness among stakeholders in this regard. 

Addressing a gathering of activists and students at a wild life photography exhibition held yesterday, Nathwani said people and the state government are opposed to the idea of translocating some Asiatic lions from Gir forest (in Somnath district) to Kuno wild life sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh. 

Supreme Court in April 2013 had ruled that some lions in the Gir forest be shifted to Kuno wild life sanctuary in MP within six months. 

"The apex court and Centre's fears, that a second home is needed to save Asiatic lions from extinction, were not supported by scientific proof. Kuno is not suitable for Gir lions owing to presence of tigers there, its eco-climate is different from that of Gir forest," he said. 

The MP said that there were 25 tigers in Kuno forest at one time but in July 2009, there was no significant tiger population. 

Translocation of lions from Gir will cause an irreparable damage to the sociology of lions in the state, he added. 

He also said the Kuno sanctuary has witnessed a rise in number of incidences of poaching in the recent past and claimed that there are more than 400 gun-licence holders in the region. 

The Gir national forest park is boasted as the pride of Gujarat which is the only natural habitat of the Asiatic lions.

Friday, November 21, 2014

Two injured in leopard attacks in Gir-Somnath, Junagadh villages

21-11-2014
Two injured in leopard attacks in Gir-Somnath, Junagadh villages

The Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/rajkot/Two-injured-in-leopard-attacks-in-Gir-Somnath-Junagadh-villages/articleshow/45224954.cms
Two persons, including an eight-year-old girl, were attacked in two separate incidents reported from Gir-Somnath and Junagadh districts on Thursday. 

Sources said that a leopard mauled Jagruti Koli in Mein village of Una taluka in Gir-Somnath district on Thursday morning after it picked up the girl who was asleep in the open along with her parents who are agricultural labourers. However, her parents woke up in time and raised an alarm that led the large cat to abandon the injured girl. She was rushed to the government hospital in Una for treatment. 

In the second instance, 58-year-old Nanjibhai of Jetvadala village in Visavadar taluka of Junagadh district was attacked by a leopard while he was taking a stroll at his farm. He was rushed to a hospital in Visavadar. 

Another lion dies at Etawah safari, officials not sure why

17-11-2014Another lion dies at Etawah safari, officials not sure why
The Indian Express

http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/another-lion-dies-at-etawah-safari-officials-not-sure-why/

An Asiatic lion, Vishnu, died at Etawah's Lion Safari on Sunday morning, weeks after a lioness succumbed of an undiagnosed disease there. Forest department officials are clueless regarding the exact nature of the disease that killed the two big cats.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav's ambitious project, Lion Safari, had suffered a major blow on October 30 when lioness Lakshmi died due to cardio-respiratory failure. Both Lakshmi and Vishnu were brought to the upcoming breeding centre from Kanpur zoo in September. Before Kanpur zoo, the pair was kept at Hyderabad zoo where they had come from Gujarat.

A state government spokesperson on Sunday said Vishnu fell ill over one-and-a-half months ago and died of "cardio-respiratory failure following vital organ dysfunction".

"While the state government continues to claim it had sought advice from veterinary experts from the UK's zoo society and Born Free Foundation, forest officials overseeing the safari project still do not know the exact disease which killed the two Asiatic lions. Nor do they have information on the possible cause of infection.

Divisional Forest Officer, Chambal Division, A K Patel said they were waiting for the report from Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), which is diagnosing Lakshmi's disease. "They had collected samples and were expected to submit their report by now. We still don't know anything about the disease," Patel told The Indian Express, adding that the remaining six lions at the breeding centre are healthy.

Director, Lion Safari, K K Singh said six-year-old Vishnu's autopsy has been conducted. The viscera has been preserved and sent for examination at IVRI and Veterinary College, Pantnagar, he added.

Saturday, November 15, 2014

Activists to protest in Delhi over delay in translocation of lions to MP

10-11-2014
Activists to protest in Delhi over delay in translocation of lions to MP
Hindustan Times
http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/madhyapradesh/activists-to-protest-in-delhi-over-delay-in-translocation-of-lions-to-mp/article1-1284502.aspx

With Gujarat government yet to provide lions for translocation to Madhya Pradesh's Kuno Palpur for ensuring their 'long-term survival', wildlife lovers and activists from Madhya Pradesh will hold a dharna in New Delhi from November 27, when the winter session of the Parliament is underway.

The dharna will be held under the banner of Environmental Action Group Prayatna, led by wildlife activist Ajay Dubey. Prayatna secretary Dubey, while talking to HT, said they (activists and wildlife lovers) were left with no other option but to stage a dharna at Jantar Mantar.

The Environmental Action Group has already filed a contempt petition against ministry of environment and forests and Gujarat government for not complying Supreme Court order on translocation of lions. "Somehow, the MP government is afraid to push the matter. We have been left with no other option but to take our demand directly to New Delhi," he said.

Dubey said that following the rejection of the curative petition filed by Gujarat government against translocation of lions, there was only one thing left — translocation of lions as soon as possible.

According to Dubey, he has also decided to write letters to all the members of Parliament from the state, including environment minister Prakash Javadekar.

Dubey said that in 1993, the Wildlife Institute of India had conducted a study to identify the best area for translocation of lions and they found Kuno-Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary in MP most suitable for the purpose.

"Wildlife lovers across the country want Modi to fast-track the translocation of lions as per the orders or the apex court. We are pushing for early shifting as scientifically October to February was the best time for translocation," said Sushil Levi, an activist, who will take part in the dharna.

In August this year, the Supreme Court had rejected a curative petition filed by Gujarat government against its order directing on translocation of lions to Kuno Palpur.

Earlier on April 15, 2013, the apex court in a judgment had directed that the lions be translocated to Kuno-Palpur from the Gir Sanctuary. The court had also formed a 12-member expert panel to decide on various aspects of the translocation.

More than 400 Asiatic lions exist in Gir Sanctuary. Experts express apprehensions that high rate of inbreeding could make them susceptible to epidemics.

Tuesday, November 11, 2014

Activists to protest in Delhi over delay in translocation of lions to MP

10-11-2014
Activists to protest in Delhi over delay in translocation of lions to MP
Hindustan Times
http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/madhyapradesh/activists-to-protest-in-delhi-over-delay-in-translocation-of-lions-to-mp/article1-1284502.aspx

With Gujarat government yet to provide lions for translocation to Madhya Pradesh's Kuno Palpur for ensuring their 'long-term survival', wildlife lovers and activists from Madhya Pradesh will hold a dharna in New Delhi from November 27, when the winter session of the Parliament is underway.

The dharna will be held under the banner of Environmental Action Group Prayatna, led by wildlife activist Ajay Dubey. Prayatna secretary Dubey, while talking to HT, said they (activists and wildlife lovers) were left with no other option but to stage a dharna at Jantar Mantar.

The Environmental Action Group has already filed a contempt petition against ministry of environment and forests and Gujarat government for not complying Supreme Court order on translocation of lions. "Somehow, the MP government is afraid to push the matter. We have been left with no other option but to take our demand directly to New Delhi," he said.

Dubey said that following the rejection of the curative petition filed by Gujarat government against translocation of lions, there was only one thing left — translocation of lions as soon as possible.

According to Dubey, he has also decided to write letters to all the members of Parliament from the state, including environment minister Prakash Javadekar.

Dubey said that in 1993, the Wildlife Institute of India had conducted a study to identify the best area for translocation of lions and they found Kuno-Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary in MP most suitable for the purpose.

"Wildlife lovers across the country want Modi to fast-track the translocation of lions as per the orders or the apex court. We are pushing for early shifting as scientifically October to February was the best time for translocation," said Sushil Levi, an activist, who will take part in the dharna.

In August this year, the Supreme Court had rejected a curative petition filed by Gujarat government against its order directing on translocation of lions to Kuno Palpur.

Earlier on April 15, 2013, the apex court in a judgment had directed that the lions be translocated to Kuno-Palpur from the Gir Sanctuary. The court had also formed a 12-member expert panel to decide on various aspects of the translocation.

More than 400 Asiatic lions exist in Gir Sanctuary. Experts express apprehensions that high rate of inbreeding could make them susceptible to epidemics.

Tuesday, November 04, 2014

Safari to have another pair of Asiatic lions from Gir

01-11-2014
Safari to have another pair of Asiatic lions from Gir
The Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/kanpur/Safari-to-have-another-pair-of-Asiatic-lions-from-Gir/articleshow/45007827.cms

The breeding centre of Lion Safari will soon get another pair of Asiatic lions from Gujarat.

The state forest department had stepped up efforts to get a pair of Asiatic lions from Gir Forest in Gujarat.

This was disclosed on Saturday by the state forest department and safari authorities. Director of Etawah Lion Safari KK Singh said : "A talk had already been initiated in this regard with the Gujarat forest department by senior officials of state. A team led by safari officials would visit Gujarat soon."

Safari authorities believe that lion Vishnu and lioness Lakshmi are offsprings of the same family. A veterinary officer said, "The immunity system of the lions of same family is quite low, so we will try to procure animals purely from the wild instead of the hybrid ones."

Lakshmi, one of the eight lions at the breeding centre in Etawah, died on Thursday.

The lioness had developed paralysis-like symptoms. Lakshmi's partner and nephew Vishnu is also showing symptoms of paralysis and undergoing treatment at the quarantine of lion safari.

Lakshmi and Vishnu brought from Hyderabad zoo, had been housed in Kanpur's Allen Forest for nearly one-and-a-half year before being shifted to Etawah on September 10.

Sources at the safari pointed out that Vishnu might be shifted to prevent other wild beasts from contracting infection.

Aman-Kumari, Heer-Raanjha and Kuber-Greeshma, the three pairs of Asiatic lions are being monitored round-the-clock by veterinarians. An exclusive breeding area had been created to house them when they arrived from Lucknow zoo to safari in the recent past.

According to wildlife activists, Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica), also known as the Indian lion, is a lion subspecies that exists as a single population in Gujarat. It is listed as endangered by IUCN due its small population. The lion population has steadily increased in the Gir Forest National Park, more than doubling from a low of 180 in 1974 to 411 in April 2010, consisting of 97 adult males, 162 adult females, 75 sub-adults and 77 cubs.

"Lion Safari is being planned to create a world-class facility for the rare and endangered guests. The exhibit for lions will feature large open spaces similar to what they have in the wild and also an exclusive sprinting area for routine exercising," a forest official said.

Asiatic lion falls into well in Junagadh, rescued

04-11-2014
Asiatic lion falls into well in Junagadh, rescued
The Indian Express
http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/asiatic-lion-falls-into-well-in-junagadh-rescued/

A male Asiatic lion reportedly fell into an open well in Amrapur village, some 85 kilometres west of Junagadh city, in Maliya Hatina taluka of the district early on Monday. However, the big cat was successfully rescued by forest department within hours and sent to animal care centre in Sasan Gir.

The incident came to light after residents of Amrapur informed forest officers that the lion, around seven to eight years in age, had fallen in the open well located on a farm of Badhabhai Rabari. Soon, a rescue team reached the spot and lowered a charpoy (bed) in the 60-feet deep well which was filled with water.

"After it jumped on the bed again, we tranquilised the lion and pulled it out of the well. It was in good health despite the fall. But we have sent it to animal care centre in Sasan-Gir as a precautionary measure. It will be kept under observation there for some time before we release it in the wild," Ramesh Katara, deputy conservator of forest (social forestry) of Junagadh district told The Indian Express.

Katara further said that the lion had fallen in the well accidentally on the intervening night of Sunday and Monday. "There was no parapet on the edges of the well and the lion fell into it in the dark of the night," said the DCF.

Incidentally, forest department has helped farmers in the areas where lions roam, build protective parapets round their wells to help prevent deaths of lions. Asiatic Lion is a Schedule-I animal which enjoys highest protection under Indian wildlife laws. The DCF said that they had instructed Rabari to build such parapet after the incident.

The incident took place at Maliya Hatina taluka where 15 lions divided in three prides have settled permanently, forest officers said. The only wild population in the world of this endangered species is surviving in Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary spread across Junagadh, Gir Somnath and Amreli districts. A few prides have settled in protected and revenue areas of Junagadh, Amreli and Bhavnagar districts also.

According to 2010 census, there were 411 lions living in these four districts in Saurashtra region of Gujarat state.

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Proposes Protection for African Lion

 28-10-2014
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Proposes Protection for African Lion
SCI News
 
Specialists from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have proposed to list the African lion (Panthera leo leo) – a symbol of majesty, courage and strength since earliest times – as threatened under the Endangered Species Act, due to habitat loss, loss of prey and increased human-lion conflicts.
 
 African lions are still found across a large range in Africa, but about 70 percent of the current African lion population exists in only 10 major strongholds containing approximately 24,000 lions.
 
Most populations in protected areas of eastern and southern Africa have been essentially stable over the last three decades.
 
However, because the majority of the human population's livelihoods within the lion's range depend on agriculture and livestock, loss and degradation of lion habitat is expected to accompany rapid human population growth.
 
Given the predicted rapid increase in human population in Africa by 2050, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) experts expect habitat loss, prey availability and human-lion conflict to continue and likely worsen.
 
Currently, the African lion is not listed as either endangered or threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), although the Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica) has been listed as endangered since 1970 under the ESA and its precursor, the Endangered Species Conservation Act of 1969.
 
"After reviewing the best available scientific and commercial information, the USFWS is proposing to list the African lion as threatened under the ESA," the experts said in a statement.
 
In addition to proposing ESA protections, the experts are also proposing a rule under section 4(d) of the ESA.
 
The rule, if finalized, will establish a permitting mechanism for the importation of sport-hunted lion trophies, provided that the lions originate from countries with a scientifically sound management plan for African lions.
 
"By providing incentives through the permitting process to countries and individuals who are actively contributing to lion conservation, the USFWS will be able to leverage a greater level of conservation than may otherwise be available," said Dan Ashe, the director of the USFWS.
 
The ESA provides numerous benefits to foreign species, primarily by prohibiting certain activities including import, export, commercial activity, interstate commerce and foreign commerce.
 
"By regulating these activities, the United States ensures that people under the jurisdiction of the United States do not contribute to the further decline of listed species."
 
"The ESA can also generate conservation benefits such as increased awareness of listed species, research efforts to address conservation needs, or funding for in-situ conservation of the species in its range countries."
 
"In addition, the ESA provides for limited financial assistance to develop and manage programs to conserve listed species in foreign countries, encourages conservation programs for such species, and allows for assistance for programs, such as personnel and training."
 

Beware of lion: Threat that keeps intruders away in Greater Gir

28-10-2014
Beware of lion: Threat that keeps intruders away in Greater Gir
The Times of India
 
In the Greater Gir, lions are not only tolerated by humans, but it appears that humans in the area also assiduously cultivate the company of the magnificent beasts. It turns out that the lions' special place in the human scheme of things owes to their capacity to be security guards who ward off blue bulls and wild boars, animals which can destroy fields if given a free run.
 
These facts emerged from a study, 'Ecology of Lions in Greater Gir Landscape', carried out by two doctors — Jalpan C Rupapara and Purvesh K Kacha. They have pointed out the burgeoning population of blue bulls in the Greater Gir area is a major threat to the fields. But when lions are around, farmers do not have to bother about either the blue bulls or indeed the wild boars.
 
Interestingly, the villagers also consider lions to be wildlife showpieces and call their friends and relatives from adjacent talukas and villages for big cat shows.
 
In 2009, a lioness and four cubs strayed into Gondal following heavy rains and were marooned. They were rescued and caged in the Sakarbaugh Zoo. The residents were so exercised by the capture that they launched an agitation and forced the forest department to release the lions in the same area. Such is the attachment, altruistic or not, that the villagers feel towards the lions.
 
The human-beast bonhomie is broken only when the lions are disturbed. In fact, the report states that lion attacks almost always happen when the animals are teased. However, the truth is never revealed by the victims of such attacks because illegal lion shows organized by local residents are the primary cause of irritation for the lions.
 
 

Gir draws 81% more visitors this season

 27-10-2014
Gir draws 81% more visitors this season
The Times of India
 
The extended Diwali vacation saw a record 81% jump in the number of tourists in the Gir Sanctuary, the last abode of the Asiatic Lion. Around 24,000 tourists visited Gir Sanctuary over the four-day Diwali period starting October 23 this year, an increase of 10,800 tourists in comparison to same period last year.
 
On Sunday, more than 8,800 people came to visit the king of the jungle on a single day, a record in itself. Principal chief conservator, wildlife for Gujarat, C N Pandey, said that this was their busiest festive season as people flocked in the thousands to spot the lions. What's more, almost 100% bookings for the jungle safari were done online. Even for Devaliya safari 50% bookings were done online.
 
"In the four days surrounding Diwali festivities, 81% more visitors came to Gir. The greater tourist pull is the lions and a large number of cubs, which can be spotted all over the sanctuary. In case of Devaliya safari there is always 100% chance of spotting a lion," added Pandey.
 
Like last year, this time too, 150 permits were granted each day, relaxing the 90 permit limit observed on the regular days, to manage the heavy tourist rush. "More than 1000 tourists went for Devaliya safari each day on all four days while rest of the tourists went in for jungle safari," said Pandey who is also chief wildlife warden of Gujarat.
 

4-year-old lion electrocuted near Mahuva

 23-10-2014
4-year-old lion electrocuted near Mahuva
The Times of India
 
Yet another lion died an unnatural death on Wednesday when it was electrocuted near Mahuva town of Bhavnagar district.
 
Sources said the body of the four-year-old male lion was found clinging to a fence on the border of a research farm of Junagadh Agricultural University and the one belonging to Sufiyan Gafar Halani of Vaghnagar village located at a distance of 5km from Mahuva. Forest officials said that they will register a case in the matter once the postmortem report arrives. Sources said that farmers put up electric fences to ward off animals like Neelgai and wild boar that destroy their crops. These fences also claim the lives of lions at times.
 
In-charge deputy conservator of forest at Bhavnagar division Jivraj Rokad said the carcass of lion was found near the fence wire and the postmortem was conducted at Animal Rescue Centre at Ranigala.
 
"Primarily we have concluded that the big cat died of electrocution. We have taken viscera samples for forensic examination. We are now investigating the source of electric supply to the wire and who did it,'' Rokad added.
 
As many as 12 lions have died due to unnatural causes since January 2014 in Bhavnagar, Amreli and Junagadh districts of Saurashtra.
 
This is the second incident of a lion dying an unnatural death in the Mahuva forest range. Earlier, a female cub of about five months had died after falling into an open well in Mota Pipaliya village. Lions have settled in Mahuva's Ranigala forest area for the last 14 years.
 
According to the lion census of 2010, there were 411 Asiatic lions in Gir forest and its adjoining areas. In the last five years, 261 lions have died and many of them have met an unnatural end.
 
 
 
 

Thursday, October 23, 2014

Lion electrocuted on Bhavnagar farm

23-10-2014
Lion electrocuted on Bhavnagar farm
The Indian Express
http://indianexpress.com/article/cities/ahmedabad/lion-electrocuted-on-bhavnagar-farm/

A forest guard on routine patrol found the four-year-old lion entangled in an electric wire.

An Asiatic lion was killed after it allegedly came in contact with a live electric wire and suffered an electric shock on an agricultural farm in Vaghnagar village near Mahuva in Bhavnagar district on Wednesday morning. This is the second unnatural death of the big cat in Mahuva this year.

A forest guard on routine patrol found the four-year-old lion entangled in an electric wire on the edge of the cotton field of Gafar Abbas Halari in Vaghnagar village, some five kilometres away from Mahuva on.

"The lion was found dead near an electric wire. So, prima facie, we believe it was electrocuted. However, we are awaiting the post-mortem report and results of forensic tests to know the exact cause of death," Jivraj Rokad, in-charge deputy conservator of forest (DCF) of Bhavnagar said.

The carcass of the lion was later taken to an animal rescue centre at Ranigala near Mahuva where a panel of veterinarian conducted post-mortem.

Many farmers use low-voltage direct current generated by batteries to illuminate their farms at night and keep wild animals like blue bulls and wild boars away. The current is not usually fatal. "We are investigating if the wire was charged with DC or AC (alternating current) power. As of now, nobody has been arrested," the DCF further said.

Ramani added the male lion was part of a pride of four lions which they had been observing in the area for the past four days. "We are trying to locate the other members of the pride. The process to record Halari's statement is also underway," said the RFO.

This is second unnatural death of endangered Asiatic lions in Mahuva in October. A three-month old female lion cub had been killed after it fell in an open well in Mota Pipaliya village early this month. A male lion was allegedly electrocuted to death in Moti Monpari village in Visavadar taluka of Junagadh and the forest department had arrested five farmers in this connection.

Mahuva is part of greater Gir area covering Junagadh, Gir Somantha, Amreli and Bhavnagar districts in Saurashtra.

Saturday, October 18, 2014

At lion rescue centre, cubs yanked out of cage by visitors

11-10-2014
At lion rescue centre, cubs yanked out of cage by visitors
The Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/rajkot/At-lion-rescue-centre-cubs-yanked-out-of-cage-by-visitors/articleshow/44780470.cms

 Lions are not safe in reserved forests too!

A family not only got access into the reserved forest area of Ranigala near Mahuva but also managed to take out lion cubs from the rescue cages to play with them. One of the family members posted the pictures of his family playing with the cubs on the social networking site.

The photos, which are in TOI possession, show that the cubs were brought out of the cages into the open area. Sources said that lion cubs were rescued by forest department after they were abandoned by lioness in the forest. Other photos show that a woman and a man playing with two cubs inside the animal rescue enclosures in the forest.

Asiatic Lion is protected under schedule one category under Wildlife Protection Act-1972, the highest protection given to wild animal in the country.

When contacted, deputy conservator of forests, Bhavnagar, KS Randhawa said, "If this is true, it is extremely alarming and I will look into this matter. We will take action against those persons who are found responsible for this."

Sources said that this could be among the most alarming incidents of how people have easy access to lions even in reserve forest areas. No wonder, this is the same area, from where 10-month-old lion cub had gone missing in April 2012 and forest department is yet to trace it.

In April 2011, a lion was electrocuted at Valar village in Mahuva range. When the carcass was found, the claws were missing. Four persons were arrested in the connection but forest officials have not found the claws.

Sources said that human danger is always lurking for lions in Ranigala. During holidays and sometimes weekends, large number get unauthorized access to the area and they come with SUVs and cars. Sources also said that people freely move behind the lions in their cars.

According to the last census, there were 411 lions in the sanctuary and of this, 33 were in Bhavnagar district, mostly in Mahuva range. Over a decade ago, lions from Gir forest migrated towards Mahuva and have settled here permanently.


Activist writes to PM, urges him to give go-ahead for lion transfer to MP

09-10-2014
Activist writes to PM, urges him to give go-ahead for lion transfer to MP
Hindustan Times
http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/bhopal/activist-writes-to-pm-urges-him-to-give-go-ahead-for-lion-transfer-in-mp/article1-1273355.aspx?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+HT-Bhopal+(HindustanTimes.com+-+Top+bhopal+News+Headlines)

With Narendra Modi scheduled to visit Madhya Pradesh on Thursday to inaugurate Global Investors Summit at Indore, environmental action group Prayatna has written a letter to Modi, requesting him to make the announcement at the mega event regarding translocation of lions from Gujarat to MP's Kuno Palpur for ensuring 'long-term survival' of the big cats in India.

The group has stated that if Modi doesn't make the announcement on Thursday and no movement happens on the translocation issue, it will be left with no other option but to stage a sit-in dharna at Jantar Mantar in Delhi from second week of November.

The group has already filed a contempt petition in July against Ministry of Environment and Forests and Gujarat government for not complying with the Supreme Court order on translocation of lions.

Wildlife activist and Prayatna secretary Ajay Dubey said if MP took care of people from Gujarat's Kutch who had settled in Kuno Palpur over three decades ago, it can also take care of Gujarat's lions. "Scientifically October to February is the best time for translocation," Dubey said.

"Wildlife lovers and activists not only in MP but across the country want Modi to fast-track the translocation of lions as per the orders or the SC," he added.

Dubey said that following the rejection of the curative petition filed by Gujarat government against translocation of lions, there was only one thing left now — translocation of lions.

Barda suitable site for lion translocation: WII study

07-10-2014
Barda suitable site for lion translocation: WII study
The Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/environment/flora-fauna/Barda-suitable-site-for-lion-translocation-WII-study/articleshow/44550815.cms

Barda Dungar, a lion translocation site within Gujarat, should be an isolated lion habitat, which should not have connection with Gir Sanctuary, suggested experts of the Wildlife Institute of India (WII).

It was in October 2013 the state government had asked WII scientists and lion expert Y V Jhala and his team to prepare a report over reintroduction of lions in Barda Dungar. The report prepared by WII team of Jhala, Kausik Banerjee, Parabita Basu, Stotra Chakrabarti and Subrata Gayen states: Barda should be a separate free ranging lion population so as to mitigate the threat of a catastrophe on an isolated single population on which debates and discussions are going on since past two decades. In the case of Barda, connectivity with Gir landscape is not desirable and lion population in Barda needs to be managed artificially as a metapopulation, where lion movement between populations is human controlled with appropriate checks for disease so as to avoid epidemic induced catastrophic mortality. This will augment the conservation importance. With this, the long-term viability of lions in Saurashtra landscape is enhanced by adding Barda.

The report further recommends Barda sanctuary should be made free from human habitations to create habitats exclusively available for lions and biodiversity conservation and also restore wild prey population in Barda through continued restocking programme.

The report states that almost 98% Maldharis were ready for resettlement, while only two per cent were happy to stay inside Barda and not willing to move out. Better livelihood options, better amenities and human safety were the primary reasons behind Maldharis' willingness to leave Barda sanctuary.

The report also gives out various possibilities of translocation of lions. It says that the total area of Barda landscape was 410 square km, out of which 374 sq km comprised of larger patches and the rest 36 km with smaller patches. The report states that the larger patches of Barda landscape are likely to hold three lions per 100 sq km, while the smaller patches can hold two lions per 100 sq km. These summed up to an additional lion numbers of 12 adult individuals supported outside Barda.

Barda wait began with Kuno

If Kuno Palpur in Madhya Pradesh has been waiting for lions since 1990's, it is Barda Dungar in Gujarat which has also been waiting for a similar period to hear the roars of the big cats in the wild. Barda was proposed as an alternative site for reintroduction of Asiatic Lions by the Gujarat forest department when Kuno Palpur was being proposed by wildlife biologists in 1990.

However, Barda project never saw the light of the day since early 1990's. It was only after the Supreme Court's April 2013 order directing lions' translocation to Kuno Palpur that the state forest department decided to put the project on fast track. In early 1990's wildlife biologists selected Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS) in Madhya Pradesh as a potential reintroduction site. In this light Barda WLS situated in the western part of Saurashtra was selected as an alternative site for reintroduction of Asiatic lions by the Gujarat forest department.

Gir lions infected with rare bacteria

05-10-2014
Gir lions infected with rare bacteria
The Times of India
http://www.deccanchronicle.com/141005/nation-current-affairs/article/gir-lions-infected-rare-bacteria

Lucknow: The lions brought from Gujarat are unable to walk and are becoming weaker.
 
"Both the lions are unable to walk properly and are getting weaker by the day. They were perfectly healthy when they were brought here," said a vet attending to the lions in Etawah in Uttar Pradesh.
 
The blood samples of the ailing lions were sent to the Indian Veterinary Research Institute in Bareilly and the results were shocking, to put it mildly.
 
"The report from IVRI states that the lions are infected with a rare bacterium called Leptospira that they may have contracted from the urine of rats. The urine of rats may have got mixed with the water or meat served to the lions.
 
This bacterial infection damages the liver and kidney and the nervous system is adversely affected. This explains why the lions are unable to walk properly, have become weak and seem disoriented," said a  wildlife expert who has been monitoring the condition of the lions.
 
Forest department officials say the lions were also injured while being transported to the lion safari from Kanpur Zoo where they had been initially kept. "They had simple wounds and it is possible that they contracted the infection through these wounds," the official said.

Lions have more leg space as they move out of sanctuaries

30-09-2014
Lions have more leg space as they move out of sanctuaries
The Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/lions-have-more-leg-space-as-they-move-out-of-sanctuaries/articleshow/43889871.cms

 It is a known fact that Lions of Gir Sanctuary are moving out in search of new territories because of lack of space, but it is now documented as the Lions move out of the sanctuary, they rule a larger area as they get more space.

The territory of the Lion and lioness multiplies as they move out of the sanctuary and get closer to the humans. According to a study 'Ecology of lions with emphasis on the agro-pastoral landscape of Greater Gir Ecosystem' by Wildlife Institute of India experts, within the Gir sanctuary, territorial males had 2.5 times larger range (average 103 sq. km) than females (average 40 sq. km), but the eastern landscape, that is outside the sanctuary area, the minimum home range size of territorial males increased to 333 sq km, while the same for the female was 193 sq. km.

The space occupied the Lions outside the sanctuary was three times than the space occupied by the Lions within the Sanctuary, while in case of female it was it was almost five times. The territory which was around 40 sq. km increases to 193 sq km as the lioness moves out.

The study of the WII experts Y.V. Jhala, Kausik Banerjee, Parabita Basu and Subrata Gayen states that the average core area of lions was estimated to be 166 sq. km. Also the study said that the a lion outside the sanctuary was nearly 36 months, while the average estimated age at which the sub adult males leaves the group searching for new territory was 3 years and nine months.

Officials said that the sub adult males who establish their new territory showed no or very little overlap with their parental territories. The study reveals that the low dispersal of Gir lions compared to the Serengeti is probably because of even distribution of prey and small size of available habitats in Gir.

Experts suggest:

* Conservation of all vegetation patches larger than four sq. km and attempt should be made to restore outside one kilometer radius from villages for breeding lionesses and daytime refuge for other lions. This will minimize confrontations and potential of conflicts with humans.

* Riverine patches within the Gir-Girnar corridor are vanishing at an alarming rate and the remaining patches are likely to be converted to agriculture by 2020. Sustainable management of these forest fragments along other small rivers is required with a focus on lion conservation.

Animal-loving celebrities turn to adoption

02-10-2014
Animal-loving celebrities turn to adoption
The Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Animal-loving-celebrities-turn-to-adoption/articleshow/43704404.cms

Ever since the animal adoption scheme was introduced at the Chamarajendra Zoological in Mysore in 2001, a slew of animal-lovers, especially celebrities, have taken it upon themselves to make the lives of these captive creatures more comfortable.

The most recent additions to this evergrowing list are filmmaker Indrajit Lankesh, who adopted a white peacock for life, and cricketer Vinay Kumar, who's loosened his purse strings for an Asiatic lion.

INDRAJIT LANKESH
When the filmmaker, who also runs a tabloid, announced that he was adopting a peacock for life, it did not take many by surprise, given that the logo of his publication features the national bird.

VINAY KUMAR
On his most recent visit to Mysore, the cricketer, accompanied by his wife Richa decided to adopt a lion called Darshan.

DARSHAN
Sandalwood actor Darshan, who has a private zoo of sorts at his farm in Mysore, has adopted the tiger cub Manya and a baby elephant.

MS DHONI
It's a Bengal tiger called Agasthya that caught the fancy of Indian cricket skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni.

ANIL KUMBLE
As the vice chairman of the State Wildlife Board, the former cricketer decided to do his bit, when he paid for the upkeep of the Asiatic Lion Shankara and a giraffe calf.

RAHUL DRAVID
Former Indian cricketer Rahul may not have been the fastest on the field, but he pays for the welfare of a very fast animal -the cheetah. Rahul has adopted not one, but two African cheetahs.

BS YEDDYURAPPA
The former Kar nataka chief minis ter adopted a tiger called Amulya for a year, which he has been renewing year-on year.

Lion found dead near Junagadh

24-09-2014
Lion found dead near Junagadh
The Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Home/Environment/Flora-Fauna/Lion-found-dead-near-Junagadh/articleshow/43321543.cms

A lion was found dead in Junagadh Agricultural University (JAU)'s research farm on the outskirts of Junagadh town on Tuesday morning.

The lion is believed to be around one-and-a-half-year old. The decomposed body was found some 10 km away from Junagadh towards Bilkha Road. The carcass suggested that the lion might have died two days ago.

"We have sent the body for post-mortem to ascertain the exact cause of death. But preliminary investigation suggests that lion may have died due to snake bite,'' said Parbat Maru, range forest officer, Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary (Girnar South division), Junagadh.

Forest officials said that a lioness and her three cubs were seen roaming around this area before a few days.

The death of lions have remained cause of concerns for wildlife conservationists as over 265 lions have died in Gir forest and adjoining areas in last five years, most of them in unnatural death.

According to last lion census, there were 411 lions in Gir forest, the last abode of Asiatic lions.

Suo motu PIL in Gujarat High Court on new tourism zone in Gir

25-09-2014
Suo motu PIL in Gujarat High Court on new tourism zone in Gir
Business Standard
http://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/suo-motu-pil-in-gujarat-high-court-on-new-tourism-zone-in-gir-114092501322_1.html

The Gujarat High Court today sought explanation from the Centre and the state government on a plan to set up new tourist zone in the Gir Asiatic lions sanctuary.

The court took up the issue as a suo motu PIL.

The division bench comprising justices Akil Kureshi and J B Pardiwala served notices to the Union Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) and the state government's forest department in the PIL, which demanded that the area be declared as a 'critical habitat zone'.

The court also directed the Gujarat government to file a status report on developmental and construction activities in the Gir Lions sanctuary elaborating whether those activities are permissible under provisions of the law.

The bench asked details of private properties constructed in the sanctuary and directed the district collector of Gir-Somnath to file a reply.

The issue surfaced after a 'whistleblower' made a detailed application to the Gujarat High Court Chief Justice, last month, stating that the Gujarat government has proposed a new tourist zone in the south-east area of the Gir sanctuary.

It was contended in the application that the south- east area should be declared as a 'critical wild-life zone' instead of proposing a new tourist zone.

There is already a tourist zone in Gir Asiatic lions sanctuary and due to this encroachment of developmental activities, the ecology of the area has incurred a loss, the application said.

The Gujarat High Court has taken up the issue as a suo motu PIL and initiated proceedings.

After issuing notices to all respondents, the court posted the matter for further hearing on October 16.

Two lionesses join Jerusalem zoo

20-09-2014
Two lionesses join Jerusalem zoo
The Time of Israel
http://www.timesofisrael.com/two-lionesses-join-jerusalem-zoo/

Recent arrivals at Biblical Zoo from Germany and Czech Republic to join male brought earlier this year

Jerusalem's Biblical Zoo on Thursday announced the arrival of two Asiatic lions from European zoos to join its collection.


The two lionesses were acquired from the zoos in Magdeburg, Germany and Prague, Czech Republic. The elder, from Prague, is 13-years-old and the younger German lioness is a year-and-a-half-old. The zoo didn't disclose the names of its new additions.

"They are both acclimating behind the scenes and will soon slowly get used to their new home and come outside into their courtyard," the Biblical Zoo said on Facebook. "We will provide ongoing updates."

The two females will accompany the current resident male Asiatic lion, Ziv, who was imported from Sweden earlier this year.

Lider, a 16-year-old Asiatic lion, was put to sleep last year after veterinarians and keepers decided that his difficulties in walking and standing, brought on by chronic back pain, were insufferable. The zoo has since sought to bring additional big cats to the park to replace him.

Asian lions were once indigenous to Israel and the Middle East, but now a mere 359 or so animals exist in the wild in the Gir Forest of India, according to a local conservation group. Another 200 Asiatic lions live in zoos worldwide.

Drama on Maldharis to entertain Gir tourists

18-09-2014
Drama on Maldharis to entertain Gir tourists
The Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/City/Ahmedabad/Drama-on-Maldharis-to-entertain-Gir-tourists/articleshow/42751697.cms

The state forest department is planning to promote the culture of Gir and its surrounding areas. Apart from Lion Safari, the department has planned to tie up for performance of Akoopar, a drama on the life of Maldharis and their relationship with lions.

"We plan to have this drama as a regular feature along with the short documentary on lions. There will be an expert present during the documentary show to take live questions from the audience," said a senior forest official.."An amphitheater has been constructed for the purpose. The department also plans to promote eco-tourism apart from the Lion Safari. The department has planned to have performance of 'Akoopar,' especially on weekends or on public holidays," said C N Pandey, principal chief conservator of forest (wildlife).

The officials said that this year they are expecting a heavy rush as soon as the sanctuary re-opens on October 15. "The rush is anticipated because the sanctuary opens on October 15 after a gap of nearly three months. As soon as the sanctuary opens, there will be Diwali vacation. There will be a tremendous flow of tourists."

Officials at the Sasan headquarters said that in order to meet the heavy rush, the department now plans to have more trips of 15 seated buses. In order to meet the heavy rush, the department is compelled to have more trips of buses. The officials said that the online reservation of the safari tickets which usually open three months in advance are all booked for the vacation period. There is only one permit available for October 31.

Akoopar play: Akoopar play is based on the life of Maldharis, who live in Gir forest. The play is based on the well-known novel 'Akoopar' by Dhruv Bhatt. The play covers the culture and traditions of the Maldharis, their relationship with nature, the animals and their philosophy of life, which leads to the conservation of environment.

Monday, September 15, 2014

Lion visits common in six out of 10 Gir villages

12-09-2014
Lion visits common in six out of 10 Gir villages
The Times of India
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/City/Ahmedabad/Lion-visits-common-in-six-out-of-10-Gir-villages/articleshow/42292414.cms

Lion visits are a regular feature in six out of 10 villages in the Gir region spread out in three districts of Saurashtra - Junagadh, Amreli and Bhavnagar.

An internal survey by the Gir East and Gir West divisions of the forest department reveals that 84% villages in Junagadh, 70% in Amreli and 31% in Bhavangar have reported sightings of lions. The data is an important indicator of the wide area that the lions cover when they venture out of Gir Sanctuary.

Earlier, it was estimated that the big cats strayed in 20,000 sq km area. Forest officials said the survey was part of the long-term lion conservation project of the department.

Before bifurcation of some talukas, the three districts had a total of 2,382 villages. Out of these, lion presence was noticed in 1,367 villages (that is 57.38% of the total).

Officials said that analysis of sightings, local inputs, and information about the killing of cattle and hoved animals (ungulates) like chittal, sambhar and even neelgai that are found in the wild had led the department to identify these villages as those that were visited by the lions.

The survey report further says that these are villages where lions have been spotted either every alternate day or once in three days. The data on animals killed by the big cats reveals that there are about 1,500 villages in Saurashtra where lions go to kill domestic as well as herbivorous animals. But in 133 of these villages, the raids were not frequent.

They said that, earlier, lions had entered Bhavnagar district only in the late 2000s. Later, however, in less than a decade, the lion territory in Bhavnagar expanded in around 31% of the villages. Around 258 villages in the district have reported lion sightings.

Experts say the increased number of lions is a result of the conversation efforts put in by the state government. The big cats are now forced to venture out because the Gir National Park and Gir Sanctuary together are unable to house the growing population. Their number has grown consistently -284 in 1990; 304 in1995; 327 in 2000; 359 in 2005; and 411 in 2010. The next lion census is due in May 2015.

Saturday, September 13, 2014

Wild grazers make up 76.4% of lion prey in Gir

10-09-2014
Wild grazers make up 76.4% of lion prey in Gir
The Economic Times
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/environment/flora-fauna/wild-grazers-make-up-76-4-of-lion-prey-in-gir/articleshow/42161879.cms

: The lions of Gir are more expert hunters than cattle lifters. A study by experts revealed that lions within the sanctuary hunt ungulates - chital, sambar, nilgai - as well as wild pig, more than domesticated animals.

The study 'Living with Lions: The Economics of Coexistence in the Gir Forests, India,' by Wildlife Institute of India experts Kausik Banerjee, Yadavendradev Jhala, Kartikeya Chauhan and Chittranjan Dave revealed that in the Gir sanctuary, about 76.4% of the bigcats' food was chital, sambar, nilgai and wild pig, while the remaining 23.6% was domestic livestock from within the sanctuary.

The scat analysis of lions living in the Gir Sanctuary brought out this fact. The study, also found that of the 23.6% of domestic animals, buffaloes accounted for 13.7% and cattle for 7.8%. The remainder was of other domesticated animals. The study recorded a total of 308 livestock mortalities from six nesses, of which 58.4% was due to lion predation, 3.2% from predation by leopards and 38.4% from other natural causes.

The study reveals that of the domesticated animal killed by lions, 69.4% was cattle, followed by buffaloes (29.4%) and camels (1.2%).

The study also brought out an increasing fact. Maldharis have also learnt to save their buffaloes, which are more expensive than cattle.

"Maldhari grazing herds were always observed to have a few non-productive cattle. Thus, when lions attack, they are more likely to kill these vulnerable cattle. Moreover, maldhari herdsmen arrange their herds with cattle leading, buffaloes in the middle and juvenile animals trailing," stated the study.

"We speculate that the current traditional mechanism of warding off lion predation by corralling livestock at night and having a mixed grazing herd composition being always accompanied by expert herdsmen minimized risks and economic losses to lion predation. In Gir, since livestock are reared only for dairy products and are not eaten by maldharis, there is a large cohort of old and weak cattle in which natural mortality is high and these carcasses are available to lions for scavenging," the study observed.



Crocodiles feast on carcass of Asiatic lion

08-09-2014
Crocodiles feast on carcass of Asiatic lion
The Indian Express
http://indianexpress.com/article/cities/ahmedabad/crocodiles-feast-on-carcass-of-asiatic-lion/

Crocodiles feasted on the carcass of a male Asiatic lion which was allegedly killed in a fight with another lion and was washed away into Madhuvanti dam on the borders of Gir West division in Junagadh district on Sunday.

After an operation, the forest department officials pulled out the carcass from water for ascertaining the reason of the death later in the day.

Forest officers rushed to the dam site in the afternoon after receiving information that the carcass of a male lion, around five to nine years in age, was floating in the dam in Mendarda taluka of Junagadh.

"The carcass was floating in the mouth of a stream that feeds the dam. However, the operation to fish out the carcass was fraught with danger as four crocodiles were feasting on the dead lion. Our rescuers took risk, swam into water for some distance and eventually secured the carcass by throwing a rope around the neck of the lion," deputy conservator of forest of Gir West, Kasuladev Ramesh told The Indian Express.

"A post mortem revealed that the lion had been killed by another lion in an in-fight. We believe the wild cat was killed between 48 hours and 24 hours ago," Ramesh added.


Reasons why India's biodiversity is at risk

16-10-2012
Reasons why India's biodiversity is at risk
BBC News
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-19947269

The number of tigers in India has risen in recent years, official figures show
Continue reading the main story

HOME to about a tenth of the world's known plant and animal species, India is a global biodiversity hot spot.

The country also has a bank of 50,000 varieties of rice, a grain that feeds about half of the world's population. Mangoes, tea, sorghum, millets and pulses grow freely on its lands.

But with 18% of the world's population crammed into just 2.4% of the global landmass, India's biodiversity is under pressure, something which the 12,000 delegates from 190 countries attending the UN meeting on biodiversity in the southern Indian city of Hyderabad will be aware about.

Here are some indicators of how India's biodiversity is under threat:

Four animals - the cheetah, Lesser Indian Rhinoceros, Pink-headed duck, and the Himalayan Mountain Quail - have become extinct in the last century.

A total of 929 animal species are threatened today, up from 648 in 2004, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). India's rank in the global "shame list" of nations struggling to protect its species diversity has slid to seven, next to China.

Just 1% of India's 8,000km- (4,970-mile)-long coastline is protected from badly planned and illegal development. Coral reefs and FISHare threatened by development projects like ports and power plants.

'Wide gap'

To be sure, India has explored and mapped the flora and fauna of only around 70% of its area, documenting some 150,000 plants and animals. Even the government admits there is a "wide gap" in mapping all species.

So the jury is still out on the total number of new and dying species. But in a country which spends about $2bn (£1.25bn) on biodiversity, there are some good tidings as well:

The Arunachal macaque was a surprise to science

Arunachal macaque a new species of monkey, was discovered in the north-eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh in 2005.

The Zoological Survey of India REPORTED there were 193 species of animals in India in 2011.

The number of tigers has risen to 1,706 from 1,411 in 2006.

Some of the species are no longer endangered - this week, the IUCN, removed the Lion-tailed macaquefrom its list of 25 most endangered primates as its numbers have improved.

India's Environment Minister Jayanthi Natarajan says India "speaks from a position of strength as we need to balance economic development, poverty alleviation and protection of biodiversity".

But India needs to do a lot more. Forest cover is shrinking - authorities are talking about raising it to 33% from the existing 23%. India continues to struggle to protect the tiger, lion, elephant and rhino. And yes, it needs to complete the mapping of its biodiversity.

Lion cubs make first appearance

13-08-2014
Lion cubs make first appearance
BBC News
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/8199975.stm

Rare lion cubs unveiled at zoo

A pair of rare Asian lion cubs have made their first public appearance at LONDON Zoo.

The 10-week-olds took their first steps in their new enclosure under the WATCHFUL eye of their mother Abi, who was also born at the zoo.

The species (Panthera leo persica) is listed as Endangered, with fewer than an estimated 350 animals remaining in the wild in North-West India.

It is the first time in a decade that Asian lions have been born at the zoo.

The cubs' father, Lucifer - whose name was inspired by his stud-book number (666) - will be reintroduced to the enclosure on Friday.

ASIAN LIONS
Length: male 1.7-2.5m; female 1.4-1.75m
Weight: male 150-250kg; female 120-180kg
Gestation period: 3.5 months
Lifespan: 16-18 years in the wild; about 24 years in captivity
Once widespread across SW Asia, now restricted to Gir Forest, India
Listed as endangered, about 350 individuals remain in the wild
(Source: IUCN/Asiatic Lion Information Centre)

"We are incredibly proud," David Field, zoological director for the Zoological Society of LONDON(ZSL) told BBC News.

"Lucifer came to join us a few years ago, but he was quite a young lad... so we had to wait for him to mature.

"But the results today are fantastic. There are about 350 Asian lion left in the wild, which may not seem too bad but they are only found in a tiny piece of forest in India."

Mr Field added that the lions' habitat was surrounded by expanding human settlements, which made captive breeding essential for the long-term survival of the species.

Unlike African lions, Asian lions are solitary mammals and only come together in order to mate.

In the wild, the main threats facing the lions are habitat loss and hunting.

Although their main prey is wild deer, there have been REPORTS of them attacking livestock, which brings them into direct conflict with villagers.

In the wild, the main threats facing the lions are habitat loss and hunting.

The new cubs are the latest success for the European Breeding Programme for lions, of which ZSL is a member.

Asiatic lions SAVED from extinction at Twycross Zoo

05-03-2014
Asiatic lions SAVED from extinction at Twycross Zoo
BBC News
http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/leicester/hi/people_and_places/nature/newsid_8552000/8552295.stm

Follow Kamal the Asiatic lion's journey as he sets off to find LOVE in Bristol

Asiatic lions are critically endangered and have now become one of the rarest animals in the world.

BBC Inside Out finds out how a 'dating agency' for lions, adopted by Twycross Zoo is helping to SAVE the endangered animals from extinction.

This type of breeding programme involves thousands of exotic animals being moved by road, rail and air across the UK.

BBC's Mike Dilger follows some lions from India moving from Twycross Zoo.

Asiatic lions are the cousin of its African relative and one of the rarest animals in the world. They are so uncommon it was thought there were just a dozen left in the wild.

Twycross Zoo are part of a breeding programme to protect the Asiatic lions

Kamal was one of Twycross Zoo's star attractions, before he was moved a hundred miles down the road to Bristol Zoo to meet his BLIND date Moti.

In an effort to boost the number of Asiatic lions, it is hoped that moving the big cats would encourage the lions to meet new partners and find lion LOVE.

Unfortunately, these breeding programmes are not always successful but they do help to bring species back from the brink of extinction as is the case with the Asiatic Lion.

India lion cub leads guard to its mother's corpse

12-08-2014
India lion cub leads guard to its mother's corpse
BBC News
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-28751255

Wildlife officials say cubs are dependent on their mothers for survival until the age of two-and-a-half to three years
Continue reading the main story

A lion cub has led forest rangers to its mother's corpse in an Indian sanctuary, an act described by officials as very unusual behaviour.

A forest guard, who saw the cub hiding in the bushes, followed it and went on to discover the body on a nearby hill.

The cub then guarded his mother until the ranger returned with forest and police officials to remove the carcass.

A post-mortem suggests the lioness died in a fight with other animals, possibly a herd of WATER buffalo.

Deputy Conservator of Forests in Gir, Anshuman Sharma, said the cub's behaviour was "rare" and "very peculiar" - something he had not encountered in his many years of WATCHING lions.

Gir in Gujarat state is HOME to Asiatic lions and, according to the last census done in 2010, there are 411 lions in the sanctuary.

"On Saturday afternoon, I was patrolling the Tulsi-Shyam range of the sanctuary when I saw a cub hiding in the bushes," forest guard Rana Mori told the BBC.

Such small cubs are never found alone, they are generally accompanied by their mother and Mr Mori says he started looking for the lioness.

"I followed the cub which led me to its mother's body lying on a small hillock. The mother was called Rupa [the beautiful one]. It initially looked like she was sleeping, but when it didn't move, I prodded it with my stick. That's when I discovered that the lioness was dead," he said.

When Mr Mori returned with a team of officials to remove the carcass, they found the cub still sitting near the body.

The lioness, who was about 11 years old, had broken ribs and internal injuries and died from a haemorrhage, Mr Sharma said.

Lion expert Yadvendra Dev Jhala of the Wildlife Institute of India told the BBC that he had never heard of a similar incident involving a lion cub.

But he says that in Gir there has been very little conflict with humans and "lions generally know their individual guards well".

Mr Sharma says lions are known for their social behaviour: "They are not like dogs, they won't shake paws or wag tails, but we believe they recognise guards they see every day."

Wildlife officials say cubs are totally dependent on their mothers for survival until the age of two-and-a-half to three years.

The cub, only 15 months old, is now under the constant observation of forest officials.

"Its mother, Rupa, seemed to be a loner who lived and hunted alone, But now that the lioness is gone, we expect the cub to join another group, or another lioness may start looking after it," Mr Sharma said.

Friday, September 12, 2014

Why dozens of India's Asiatic lions are dying

07-09-2011
Why dozens of India's Asiatic lions are dying
The Times of India
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-29009234

Gujarat government's last lion census in 2010 pegs their numbers at 411
Continue reading the main story

Is the last abode of the Asiatic lion turning into a death trap for the big cat?

Gir in India's Gujarat state is home to Asiatic lions and has seen 256 lions dying in the past five years.

Experts say their population is at risk with the big cats making new homes in human settlements.

Once widespread in Gujarat, the lion population shrank to a mere dozen in the early 20th Century, mainly due to hunting and drought.

But Nawab Mahabat Khanji of then Junagadh state, an animal lover who kept 300 dogs as pets, banned lion hunting, and was able to preserve the big cat.

However, in the last century as the lion population started soaring, the 1,400 sq km (540 sq miles) Gir sanctuary in Junagadh state began to be too small for the animals.

Today, lions are found across the 20,000 sq km area of the Saurashtra region - which includes Junagadh and 10 other districts - and are routinely spotted on private farms and near village homes.

Environmentalist Takhubhai Sansur says in the last three months alone, about 20 lions have been run over by speeding trucks and trains.

"Lion numbers have increased, but the challenge is their safety. About 40% of the total lion population now lives outside the forest area. Open wells and live wires on farms, poachers and passing trains and trucks have turned this region into a death field for the Asiatic lion," he says.

'Under control'

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) had in 2000 added the Asiatic lion to the list of critically endangered species.

In 2005, when the lion population started swelling and crossed 250, it was removed from the list. Gujarat government's last lion census in 2010 pegs their numbers at 411.

Gir forest official Sandeep Kumar does not see the many deaths as a major threat to the species.

"Only 20% are accidental deaths, which is a cause for concern but the situation is under control. Lions are territorial animals and they live in prides. They are moving out as a male needs an area of 50 sq km and a female needs 26 sq km."

Increasingly, big cats are found straying outside of the forest area, appearing on farms and near homes

Mr Kumar says the government is now creating alternative habitats in Saurashtra to give more space to the big cat. Officials have also asked the railways to reduce train speed in lion-dominated areas to avoid running them over.

The Gujarat government annually spends 500m rupees ($8.3m; £5m) on wildlife - half of it on the big cat.

But critics say the amount is less than 5% of what is spent on promoting tourism, for which lions are the biggest draw. They also accuse the government of not being honest about the reason behind the lions' deaths.

"The deaths are alarming and that's the reason the government continues to hide the autopsy reports. Life of big cats outside of Gir is at great risk," says wildlife activist Harish Joshi.

Wildlife scientist Ravi Chellam, who has been working with lions for the past three decades, believes India's lion population is now at risk.

'Playing politics'

In the 1990s, in a study for the Wildlife Institute of India he suggested that a few lions should be shifted outside Gujarat to save the species.

"An epidemic in Serengeti National Park in Tanzania in 1994 killed over 1,000 lions in a few days. Something of that sort can't be ruled out in Saurashtra, as a sizeable population lives outside the forest and is exposed to infections.

"Indian courts and other experts have agreed on translocation, but Gujarat government is not comfortable with the idea," says Mr Chellam, who is part of a panel appointed after a Supreme Court order to oversee the translocation.

Activists accuse the state government of "playing politics" over lions.

The Gujarat government, under then chief minister Narendra Modi who is now prime minister, fought long court battles to prevent the lions being moved to the Kuno Palpur Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh in central India.

Open wells on farms often turn into death traps for lions who fall into them

For people of Saurashtra, lions are a symbol of pride and many have adopted second names like Sinh and Savaj, which mean lion in Gujarati.

"Mr Modi exploited the translocation issue for votes in Gujarat. But those who love lions want it to be safe and would never object to translocation. After all, they are not state property," says wildlife activist Bhikhabhai Jethava.

"The rampant illegal sand and limestone mining in the region have dried the rivers and that's the reason lions are migrating to coastal areas as far as 300km [186 miles] from the forest area," he adds.

Activists are also worried over the increasing man-animal conflict in the region - in the past two years, lions have killed 14 people and wounded 114 others. And two farmers have been arrested for killing lions who strayed into their fields.

The bulk of the government budget for the big cat today is spent on compensating farmers whose cattle have been killed by lions and on removing the big cats from farms. Last year, lions killed 600 cattle and 500 operations were carried out to relocated the big cats.

Gir forest official Anshuman Sharma says they now have to provide security to farmers to harvest crops as they fear prowling lions and leopards.

"Wildlife management has now become more of human management. We have to work round the clock to ensure human life doesn't get affected as it's only due to the local people here that the lion population has survived," Mr Sharma says.

State forest officials say lions can be safe only in Gujarat, a view the state government has been pushing.

RL Meena, chief conservator of forests, rubbishes suggestions that the lion may become extinct in Gir.

"There has been no incident ever when a local has knowingly killed a lion," he says.

"People are mostly vegetarian here so there is no dearth of bush meat for the big cat."

The big question, however, still remains - are India's lions really safe?

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