Asiatic Lions have their last home in the Gir forest of Gujarat in India. Once widespread over Asia and the Middle East, they were hunted and killed in large numbers. Other environmental factors like deforestation reduced their numbers to less than 200 in the late 19th century and were restricted to the Gir forest region. But with support from the local community and the Forest department, considerable efforts to save the last of what remains have been successful. Their numbers are rising gradually to more than 700 or more as per the latest census.

This image is of Asiatic Lion cub who is the future generation. He might grow into a mighty ruler of the jungle one day.  
This edition is dedicated to them and an attempt to spread a word their story. 

Rising

Mother Queen - Tigress Ridhdhi with her cub (Photograph taken in natural habitat in Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, India)

The Tiger (Panthera tigris) is the largest living cat species and a member of the genus Panthera.s. It ranks among the biggest wild cats alive today. Today, it is threatened by poaching, loss and fragmentation of habitat, and was estimated at comprising fewer than 2,500 wild individuals by 2011 (Increased to 3500+ by latest counting).
Facts -
1. Just 3800+ Tigers are there in the wild
2. Highly endangered species threatened by poaching, loss and fragmentation of habitat.
3. Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) is only found in India (3200+), Bangladesh (300+), Nepal (150+) & Bhutan (100+), extinct in Pakistan (1906) & China (5+ non-resident, otherwise extinct)
4. It ranks among the biggest wild cats alive today

Artist : Arijit Mondal

Location : Ranthambore Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan, India

Date : 2024
Equipment - Nikon D850 + Nikon 200-500mm Lens