10 Remarkable Animals In India That Nearly Went Extinct

OT Staff

Asiatic Lion

Once found across Southwest Asia, the Asiatic lion now survives only in the Gir Forest of Gujarat. Conservation efforts have helped increase their population from a mere 20 individuals in the early 20th century to around 674 in 2020.

An august Asiatic Lion roams in a forest in Delhi | Shutterstock

Indian Rhino

The Indian rhinoceros was on the verge of extinction due to poaching and habitat loss. Conservation programs have helped their numbers recover to over 3,600 individuals today.

A pair of Indian Rhinos | Shutterstock

Bengal Tiger

The Bengal tiger population plummeted due to habitat destruction and poaching. Conservation initiatives have helped increase their numbers to around 2,967 individuals in the wild.

A majestic Bengal Tiger wetting its lips at the pond | Shutterstock

Snow Leopard

The elusive snow leopard faced threats from poaching and habitat loss. Conservation efforts have stabilised their population, with an estimated 600 individuals in the wild.

A portrait of a Snow Leopard | Shutterstock

Indian Elephant

The Indian elephant population declined due to habitat fragmentation and human-wildlife conflict. Conservation programs have helped maintain a population of around 27,000 individuals.

An Indian Elephant in its habitat | Shutterstock

Ganges River Dolphin

The Ganges river dolphin faced threats from pollution and habitat degradation. Conservation efforts have helped stabilise their population, with around 3,000 individuals remaining.

A view of Ganges River Dolphin | Wikimedia Commons

Nilgiri Tahr

The Nilgiri tahr, a mountain goat endemic to the Nilgiri Hills, faced habitat loss and hunting. Conservation efforts have helped increase their population to around 3,300 individuals.

A close-up of a Nilgiri Tahr | Shutterstock

Great Indian Bustard

The great Indian bustard faced threats from habitat loss and hunting. Conservation programs have helped stabilise their population, with around 150 individuals remaining.

A view of Great Indian Bustard in its habitat | Shutterstock

Red Panda

The red panda faced threats from habitat loss and poaching. Conservation efforts have helped stabilise their population, with around 10,000 individuals remaining.

A shot of a Red Panda eating bamboo | Shutterstock

Indian Pangolin

The Indian pangolin faced threats from poaching and habitat loss. Conservation programs have helped stabilise their population, with around 5,000 individuals remaining.

A shot of the endangered Indian Pangolin | Shutterstock

Best Places In India To Spot The Elusive Black Panther

Read More