Responsible Conservation in Gujarat

Safari Maiden Wed Jun 16, 2010 3:47 pm

Here is responsible conservation for you. Responsible Conservation in Gujarat 768480

SASAN (Gujarat): The Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, the only home of the Asiatic Lions in Gujarat, on Wednesday closed its doors to tourists for four months to provide some privacy to the big cats during their mating season.

The sanctuary will remain closed till October 14. Forest officials say that this period is crucial for the conservation of the endangered animal.

"Since we supervise the conservation efforts, we want to prevent any disturbance in the conservation activities, which could also be caused by the tourists. So we closed the sanctuary," said Sandeep Kumar, Divisional Forest Officer, Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary.

The rise in the number of Gir lions from 359 in 2005 to 411 in 2010, has led to a sharp surge in the number of visitors keen to have a close view of the wild cats.

Covering a total area of 1412 kilometres, the area is considered to be one of the most important protected areas in Asia due to its supported species.

It is also a natural habitat for leopards and antelopes like the sambar, spotted deer, blue bull, black buck, and wild boar, jackal, hyena, langurs, porcupine, bear and crocodiles and over 250 species of birds.

A lot of other reserves/parks might benefit from taking notice. What do you think?

SM

**Laikipia** Wed Jun 16, 2010 3:59 pm

Now that's a really good idea, in principal. Whether or not it is always practical i don't know but in this case well done them - they deserve the recognition for being responsible and taking conservation seriously.

I wonder if any other reserves would be able to consider it, if it works so well at Gir National Park?

Thanks for posting SM

Lai

Responsible Conservation in Gujarat

Responsible Conservation in Gujarat

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