The 116 square mile Gir Wildlife Sanctuary lies in the southwest of the peninsula state of Gujarat. Since 1913 when the lion population fell drastically to just 20 animals, the numbers have increased to around 300, and lions have now spread across several states in India. The Asiatic Lion is slightly smaller than its African cousin and its mane is also smaller.
Gir Wildlife Sanctuary is not just about lions, the second most commonly found predator in the Gir is Leopard. In fact Gir National Park is home to one of the largest Leopard populations in any park in India, and especially in the hotter season they can sometimes be seen at night close to the lodges. Other animals residents in Gir are Sambar Deer, Chital Spotted Deer, Nilgai Antelope, Chowsingha Gour-Horned Antelope, Chinkara Gazelle, Wild Boar, Langur Monkey, Jackal and Hyena.
