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Introduction
Sub-species of the
Indian Lion, the Asiatic Lion have become endangered species of wildlife in India. Once found in abundance in Southeast Asia, the Asiatic Lions are now found mainly found in the Gir forest of India. Asiatic Lions are extremely sociable animals living in small groups called prides.
Zoological Name Panthera Leo
Population and Current Status
Approximately 300 Asiatic Lions in the open and 50, in captivity like zoos and animal parks are found in India. Most lions found in zoos are of mixed breed as a result of mating between African and Asiatic Lions.
Physical Characteristics
The most characteristic feature of Asiatic Lions is a longitudinal fold of all along the belly. An adult Asiatic Lion is approximately 9 feet long. The tail itself has a length of 3 feet and a tuft of dark hair at the tip. The Asiatic Lion grows up to a height of 4 feet and weighs almost 200 kilograms. A male and female lion can be distinguished from the color of their coat. A male Asiatic Lion is between orange yellow and dark brown whereas a female Asiatic Lion’s color is lighter.
Habitat
Unlike tigers which prefer to live in dense jungles, Asiatic Lions prefer living in open forests, grasslands and scrub type deciduous forests.
Diet
The Asiatic Lion is a purely carnivorous animal and its prey includes deer, buffalo, cattle, antelope, nilgai, chital, sambar, zebra, young hippopotamus and elephant.
Behavior
Unlike most members of the felidae family, lions prefer living in pairs. A lion, lioness and a few cubs are often seen sitting together under a tree. The male lion works towards protecting his territory. A lion marks his territory by roaring and ejecting a scent by a special gland. The hunting usually begins after sunset. Eating would again bring the family together where they generally assemble near the dead prey and eat.
The breeding season of the Asiatic Lion is between October and November. After a gestation of three and a half months, the lioness gives birth to three or four cubs. The cubs remain dependent on her for two years.
Wildlife Sanctuaries
To enjoy the sight of the Asiatic Lion visit the Gir Forest National Park in India. Asiatic lions can also be seen the Bannerghatta National Park near Bangalore.
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