Synopsis
Gujarat is gearing up for an extensive lion census in the Saurashtra region next month, marking the first thorough scientific count since 2015. The survey will cover 35,000 square kilometers, reflecting a notable expansion of lion territory and offering critical data on their population and conservation needs.Key Takeaways
- Comprehensive lion census scheduled for May.
- Survey area expanded to 35,000 sq km.
- Effective conservation efforts noted over the years.
- New Block Count Method to ensure accuracy.
- Around 3,000 personnel involved in the survey.
Gandhinagar, April 15 (NationPress) Gujarat is preparing to carry out a comprehensive lion population census next month in the Saurashtra area, marking the first scientific and thorough assessment of the majestic big cat since 2015.
According to official information, the forthcoming survey will cover around 35,000 square kilometers—an expanse that includes roughly 3,400 villages and forested areas across 58 talukas in 11 districts. This represents a notable extension of the lion's habitat, which was approximately 30,000 square kilometers during the previous complete census.
In the last ten years, the lions' habitat has expanded by nearly 5,000 square kilometers, showcasing the effectiveness of conservation initiatives and the species' natural spread. Historically, Gujarat's lion population has consistently increased. In 1995, the population was documented at 304. By 2015, it had surged by 72 percent to 523. If the 2020 estimate of 674 lions is validated, it would indicate a further 28 percent increase within just five years. The impending census will deliver not only an updated population figure but also vital insights into the evolving ecology and conservation requirements of the area.
In 2020, due to the limitations posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, the state Forest Department only performed a rough estimation of the lion population using a less scientific full-moon observation technique. This estimate placed the lion count at 674. Now, the department is reverting to a more systematic and globally recognized approach known as the Block Count Method, also termed the Direct Beat Verification Method. This technique is considered the most reliable for assessing large carnivore populations and will ensure enhanced accuracy in monitoring the growth and distribution of lions in the area. To conduct the census, the state has been segmented into 8 regions, 31 zones, 110 sub-zones, and 3,400 village beats.
The survey will engage around 3,000 personnel, including beat guards, foresters, forest rangers, senior officers, wildlife observers, and trained volunteers, organized into 650 to 700 teams. High-resolution cameras will be set up at the sub-zonal level to capture images of lions from various angles, minimizing the risk of duplicate counts. The preliminary count is scheduled to take place from 2 p.m. on May 10 to 2 p.m. on May 11, followed by the final count from 2 p.m. on May 12 to 2 p.m. on May 13.
