Question

Which one of the following is a refuge for Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica)
A. Kanha National park (M.P.)
B. Corbett National park (U.P.)
C. Kaziranga National park (Assam)
D. Gir Forest (Gujarat).

Answer 1

Hint:- A Panthera leo leo population in India, Panthera leo persica known as the Asiatic lion is listed as Endangered species in IUCN Red List owing to its restricted population size and occupancy area. To answer this question, let us know about the Asiatic lion and their habitat.

Complete answer:
Step 1: Let us know about the Asiatic lion-
Asiatic lion of the Panthera leo leo population in India historically inhabited regions of Western Asia and the Middle East up to Northern India. But it is now restricted to the Gir Forest, India. Owing to its poor conservation status, it has been enlisted as the Endangered species on the IUCN Red List. If we talk about their reproduction, Asiatic lions have the mating period between October and November. The mating period generally lasts for 3 to 4 days and in this period, they prefer not to hunt and only drink water. Gestation period lasts for about 110 days.
Step 2: Based on the above description, it is quite clear that the correct answer is (D)- Gir Forest (Gujarat).

Note:- Epidemics, large forest fires or other such unpredictable events impose threat to the Asiatic lion as they are vulnerable to extinction owing to its existence as a single sub-population.
Due to COVID-19 pandemic, the 15th Asiatic Lion Census could not be conducted.
According to an estimation released in June 2020, the population of Asiatic Lion in the Gir Forest has increased by 29% over the 2015 census figure and currently stands at a count of 674.
Other pantherine cats such as Bengal tiger, Snow leopard, Indian leopard, and clouded leopard also inhabit India.