ZSL and Gujarat Forest Department signed a MoU for conservation of Asiatic lion

The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) and the Gujarat Forest Department on 26 February 2015 signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for conservation of Asiatic lion and its habitat.

The MoU was signed by ZSL Director General Ralph Armond pledging support to safeguard the future of the precious big cats.

Apart from ZSL, Wildlife Institute of India will also be the knowledge partner with the forest department in conservation of lion.

Highlights of MoU
• ZSL with its expertise in managing zoo will provide technical assistance to forest department in handling rescue operations and treatment centres.
• ZSL will provide animal husbandry and specialist veterinary expertise to train forest guards.
• It will also help to manage Sakkarbaug Zoo in Junagadh.
• Gujarat Forest Department will use smart software jointly developed by the ZSL and the Gujarat forest department for tracking the movement of their staff and even the lions.

Earlier in 2014, the first-ever fundraising event was held by the Zoological Society of London. It launched the charity's Lions400 fundraising campaign and raised over 135000 pounds towards helping to save the Asian lions.

Today, the population of Asiatic lions remaining in a small pocket of the Gir Forest is just 400. They are particularly vulnerable to the threats of disease and conflict with humans.

Zoological Society of London (ZSL)
Founded in 1826, the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) is an international scientific, conservation and educational charity organisation whose mission is to promote and achieve the worldwide conservation of animals and their habitats.

It runs active conservation projects in more than 50 countries and in its two Zoos- ZSL London Zoo and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo.