It was my desire to see the Indian lion. I wanted to see the creature in flesh and blood about which I had heard a lot. The postcard pictures and programmes on discovery channels had increased my curiousity. To see the Indian lion, I had to plan my travel to Gir National Park as it is the only habitat of this endangered species. So I left for Gujarat-the place where Gir National Park is located.

India has the distinction of being the last earthly refuge of the Asiatic lion. Indian lion is another name for Asiatic lion. An average Asiatic Lion, also known as the Indian Lion, is generally 2.5 m to 2.9 m tall, and weighs between 200 to 250 kg. It has a majestic mane and a big tail tuft.

What I saw in park is that these lions move about in prides, comprising 2-3 male adults and more lionesses and cubs. I was astonished to hear different sounds produced by these lions. My guide told me that Asian lions communicate with each other with a variety of grunts, meows, growls, moans and roars.

From the park officials, I also came to know that these lions are lazy and indolent creatures and they prey on the Sambar, Chital, Nilgai, Wild Pig, and occasionally on goats and camels. Lion males often live in pairs that last a lifetime. However, in the pride it is the females who go out hunting in packs and bring back prey, which is first devoured by the male and then by the rest of the pack. In the daytime, they live close to water holes and rest in the shade. Hunting is relegated to dusk, or at night.