Question

The Gir forest is the last remaining habitat of the _______________.
A. Tiger
B. Crocodiles
C. Lion
D. Monkeys

Answer 1

Hint: The Gir National Park was established in 1965 near Talala in the state of Gujarat. It is a forest and wildlife sanctuary, also known as Sasan Gir.

Complete Answer: The Gir forest was established in 1965 near Talala in the state of Gujarat and on 18th September 1965, the Government of India declared this forest as a wildlife sanctuary. This was done to conserve the last remaining habitat of the Asiatic Lion, whose population decreased because of indiscriminate hunting done by the people of Junagarh. The forest covers an area of 1412 square kilometres, of which the National Parks an area of 258 kilometres. It was the thoughtful exertion of Nawabs of Junagadh who protected the queen royalty in his own private grounds. Later on, the Department of Forest Officials approached to protect the world's most compromised species. There are at present around 600 Asiatic lions left in the Gir Forest of Western India, the last remaining habitat.

Now let us examine the options
Option A - Tigers of the Gir forest are still visible in abundance and have not become extinct.
Option B - The wildlife sanctuary is blessed with more than 40 species of amphibians as well as reptiles. Reptiles such as crocodiles can be seen in abundance in this sanctuary.
Option C - The Asiatic lion in 1913 had become extinct due to indiscriminate hunting done by the people of Junagadh, Gujarat. The government took the initiative to conserve these animals and declared the Gir forest as a wildlife sanctuary in 1965. The population of the Asiatic lions have increased from 20 in 1913 to 600 at present.
Option D - Monkeys can also be found in this region in large numbers.

Thus, the correct answer is option (C).

Note: Despite the fact that the Gir Forest is all around secured, there are examples of Asiatic lions being poached. They have additionally been infected for attacking livestock. Some other dangers that pose a threat to its population include floods, fires and the possibility of plagues and natural disasters.