For years, Gujarat’s lions used to roam, prey, and live in Gir Forest. However, now in the span of 10 years, they’ve found a new home—the state’s coastline. The 2025 census revealed that 134 lions have made beaches in Gujarat their permanent habitat. The lion population from 2015 to 2025 has seen a rapid growth. Keep reading for more details.
Gujarat’s Lion Population Witnesses Growth In 10 Years
Adapting to the new surroundings, Gujarat’s Gir lion population has grown from 10 to 134 in the span of 10 years (2015–2025).
For the first time, a lion was spotted along the coastline in 1995, and by 2020, 100 lions were living along the shoreline. This marks a 34% increase in just five years. In 2023, a forest officer, Parveen Kaswan, shared a video of a lion at the beach in Gujarat.
What’s the reason behind this sudden growth in population? According to The Economic Times, experts have revealed that this growth is due to the beach providing lions with everything required for survival, including suitable weather, ample space to roam, and prey.
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Not only the population, but the recent study on coastal lions also shows the expansion of their home range. On average, coastal lions cover around 171.8 sq km, much larger than the 33.8 sq km in Gir. Interestingly, female lions in these areas tend to travel long distances than males. Adult females cover about 214.8 sq km, while males average 193.9 sq km.
What Do Lions Hunt Along the Coast?
The lions on the coastal side are living peacefully, surrounded by plants like Prosopis juliflora. The ideal habitat includes prey like blue bulls and wild boars. A study titled ‘Dietary Pattern of Asiatic Lions in the Coastal Ecosystem of Saurashtra, Gujarat, India’ looked at the food habits of 160 lions. It revealed that these lions feed on six main prey species. Till now, they have eaten 74 blue bulls, 32 wild pigs, 23 cattle, 16 buffaloes, 14 goats, 4 spotted deer, and even a bird.
With the changing environment, they have found a new home for themselves, that’s the coast of Gujarat.
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Cover Image Courtesy: X/ @narendramodi