The Asiatic lion news archive - 2003

Stories relating to the Asiatic lion and updates on the captive breeding programme from 2003.

DATELINE: March 31, 2003
Fires Eat Away Gir Forest Cover

In the past 15 days, more than 700 hectares of prime forest land in Gir Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park have been affected by forest fires. The fires have destroyed bamboo and fodder worth hundreds of thousands of dollars and affected small fauna and avian life. Though experts and forest officials say wildfires occur during this time of year, they admit their number has gone up due to certain manmade factors. There has been a rise in the incidence of forest fires and they are investigating.

Indian Express