Increase in Gujarat’s Wild Ass Population

The 10th Wild Ass Population Estimation (WAPE) conducted in Gujarat earlier this year revealed a 26.14% increase in the wild ass population, now estimated at 7,672.

Key Points

Significant Population Growth: The wild ass population in Gujarat rose from 6,082 in 2020 to 7,672 in 2024, reflecting a 26.14% growth.
Endangered Status and Habitat: Wild asses, classified as “endangered” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), are found only in the Little Rann of Kutch and Great Rann of Kutch. Historically, they roamed North-West India, Pakistan, and Central Asia.
Population Distribution: Surendranagar district hosts the largest number of wild asses (2,705), followed by Kutch (1,993), Patan (1,615), Banaskantha (710), Morbi (642), and Ahmedabad (7).
Gender and Age Breakdown: The survey reported 2,569 female wild asses, 1,114 male wild asses, 584 baby wild asses, and 2,206 unclassified wild asses in forest areas. In revenue areas, there are 558 females, 190 males, 168 babies, and 283 unclassified.
Survey Methodology: WAPE-2024 covered 15,510 square kilometers using the Direct Count Method, supported by modern technology such as drone cameras, camera traps, and forest modules.
Steady Growth Since 1976: The wild ass population in Gujarat has been steadily increasing since 1976, when it was just 720.
Other Species Counted: The survey also recorded populations of other wild animals, including 2,734 Asian antelope, 915 wild boars, 222 Indian hares, 214 Indian gazelles, and 153 Indian jackals.