16th Asiatic Lion Census

The 16th Asiatic Lion Census (2025) has recently concluded, and its results, released by the Gujarat Forest Department, have brought very encouraging news for conservationists and the public alike. 

The first official lion census was conducted in 1936 by the Nawab of Junagadh. The Gujarat Forest Department has been regularly conducting it since 1965.


Key Findings of the 2025 Lion Census


Below is the detailed findings of the 2025 Asiatic Lion Census:

Significant Population Increase 

The most notable outcome is the substantial rise in the Asiatic lion population. 

The count has increased from 674 in 2020 to 891 in 2025, marking a remarkable 32.2% growth in just five years.

The survey found 196 adult males, 330 adult females, 140 sub-adults, and 225 cubs. The increase in adult females (from 260 to 330) is particularly positive, indicating strong reproductive potential.


Expanded Range

Lions are no longer confined to the traditional Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary. 

The census found them spread across a vast area of 35,000 square kilometers (up from 30,000 sq km in 2020), encompassing 11 districts and 58 talukas in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat. 

This includes areas like coastal belts and non-forested revenue lands, indicating their successful dispersal and adaptability.


Population Distribution:

While Gir National Park and its adjoining sanctuaries (Gir Wildlife Sanctuary and Pania Wildlife Sanctuary) still house a significant population (around 394 lions), a substantial portion of the lions (507 individuals, or approximately 57%) are now living outside these traditionally protected forest areas.


New Habitats

For the first time, lions were recorded in Barda Wildlife Sanctuary near Porbandar (17 lions), signifying its emergence as a "second home" and a potential future viable population. 

New satellite populations were also identified in areas like Jetpur and Babra-Jasdan.


Methodology and Technology


The 2025 census employed a rigorous and technologically advanced methodology.  

Over 3,000 participants, including forest staff, officers, volunteers, and wildlife experts, were involved in the massive exercise, covering 35,000 sq km across 11 districts. 

Transparency was maintained by inviting members of national and state wildlife boards and experts.

  • Direct Beat Verification (DBV) / Block Count Method: This is the primary method used, considered highly accurate. The entire survey area is divided into regions, zones, and sub-zones. Teams of trained enumerators, forest officials, and volunteers are assigned to specific "beats" or blocks. They systematically search these areas for lions, primarily relying on direct sightings.
  • Two-Phase Approach: The census was conducted over four days (May 10-13, 2025) in two phases:
  • Preliminary Survey (May 10-11): Initial assessment and identification of lion presence.
  • Final Population Count (May 12-13): Intensive counting and verification.
  • Advanced Technologies: The census leveraged modern tools for enhanced accuracy and efficiency:
  • High-resolution Cameras and Camera Traps: Used to capture images and aid in individual identification and counting.
  • GPS-enabled Radio Collars and GPS Tracking: For monitoring lion movements and precise location recording.
  • Automated Sensor Grids: Including magnetic, motion, and infrared sensors to detect and track wildlife activity.
  • GIS-based Real-time Monitoring: For timely data analysis, report generation, and effective management.
  • e-GujForest Mobile Application: Used for real-time data entry of sightings by field personnel.
  • AI-driven Software (like SIMBA): To assist in identifying individual lions based on their unique physical features.


Significance and Implications

 

The 2025 census results are a testament to the success of long-term conservation efforts in Gujarat, particularly the positive impact of Project Lion, launched in 2020. 

This project focuses on habitat improvement, disease management, and community involvement.

While positive, the increasing presence of lions in non-forested areas and near human settlements also highlights the need for expanded management strategies to mitigate potential human-wildlife conflicts (e.g., accidental deaths due to open wells, electrocution, or retaliatory killings).

The census data will be crucial for guiding future conservation strategies, including managing human-lion interactions, securing corridors for their movement, and further developing 'second homes' to reduce the risk of a single catastrophic event impacting the entire population.


Lion Census

  • Purpose –  to monitor the population, distribution, and demographics of the Asiatic lion.
  • Conducted by – Gujarat Forest Department
  • Frequency – Every five years.
  • First Conducted in – 1965.


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