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Panthera leo persica

Asiatic Lion

MammalBest Season: Jan–Dec

Best locations

2

Expert creators

0

Field Reports (12 months)

0

Asiatic Lion (Panthera leo persica) — wildlife photography in India

(c) Ashutosh Shinde, all rights reserved, uploaded by Ashutosh Shinde

About this species

The last wild population of Asiatic Lions exists exclusively in and around the Gir Forest of Gujarat, making every sighting a privilege. Unlike African lions, Asiatic lions tend to be more solitary and less sociable in prides. The Sasan Gir area offers guided jeep safaris into core lion habitat through the dry deciduous forest. See Asiatic Lions in Gir National Park — the only place on Earth where they survive in the wild. Safari guides and best seasons.

Behavior

Lives in smaller, looser prides than African lions, with males often solitary or paired rather than joining large coalitions. Largely nocturnal in disturbed areas but frequently active and visible by day within Gir's protected core.

Diet

Chital, sambar, and nilgai are the main wild prey, with livestock taken at the forest's edge where ranges overlap with pastoral communities.

Quick facts

Scientific name
Panthera leo persica
Category / family
Mammal · —
Habitat
Dry deciduous forest and scrub of the Gir landscape in Gujarat — the last wild lion population anywhere outside Africa.
Conservation status
Endangered (IUCN)
Best months to photograph
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Difficulty to spot
Moderate
Best locations
Gir Forest National ParkVan Vihar National Park

Field Reports

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Best locations for Asiatic Lion

Reserves and landscapes where our photographers reliably encounter this species, with links to place-specific guides.

GujaratGir Forest National Park
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Madhya PradeshVan Vihar National Park
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When and Where to Photograph Asiatic Lion

Book Gir's core-zone jeep permits well in advance — demand outstrips availability in peak season. Waterholes during the dry months (Nov–Mar) are the most reliable places to wait.

Plan field days around Jan–Dec: light is often strongest at dawn and dusk, when many mammals and birds are most active. Work with a naturalist who knows local movement patterns — they will position you ethically while improving your odds of a encounter in Gir Forest National Park.

Related species

  • Bengal Slow Loris
  • Himalayan Musk Deer
  • Indian Rhinoceros
  • Slender Loris
  • Caracal
  • Marbled Cat
  • Nilgiri Tahr
  • Sloth Bear
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