Asiatic Lion - Data, Pictures & Videos

[Rishi]

The Last Lions of Asia
Saturday, November 23, 2019

http://wildlifediaries.blogspot.com/2019...-asia.html

“Again we came across some rangers who said there is a big male lion up on a hill and is moving down, and hence to be ready. We noticed the big male coming down from the hill, and walked right onto the road and walked just next to our jeep. He was so close we could have reached out and touched him. One of my clients needed to take an inhaler due to the excitement of the encounter. The lion passed our jeep which was in the last of the line and began roaring which is typical of lions to mark their territory and to announce to other lions “he is there”. It was a thrilling experience.

*This image is copyright of its original author

*This image is copyright of its original author

*This image is copyright of its original author

*This image is copyright of its original author

That evening was to be our last safari in Gir and it began to rain very heavily just as we were about to head out. Given the jeeps are all open we were wondering if we should go or not. But finally decided to go ahead with our plans despite the bad weather, taking towels and umbrellas.
Heading in, we came across the large lion we saw in the morning, calmly sleeping on the side of the road. There was quite a large gathering of jeeps, but we managed to get a great view when he woke up and observed us for quite some time. He was a magnificent specimen and I think it was the same lion we saw on day 1. We were very glad we decided to continue with our safari despite the rain.

*This image is copyright of its original author

*This image is copyright of its original author

Afterwards we even came across on of the two lions we saw in the morning. He has dragged a pig carcass closer towards the road and was feeding on it. We observed it for a few minutes but as time was running out to exit the park we had to leave the sighting. The park rules are very strict, with each jeep assigned a specific route every day with no deviation from the route, no mobile phones allowed, and the timings are very strictly monitored. A three minute delay can cost the driver a massive fine and ban from the park.” Reply