Amreli (Gujarat) : In a bizarre spectacle, a lion was spotted floating in the Arabian Sea off Gujarat coast yesterday throwing the locals in a tizzy.
While spotting a lion during a safari is attributed to sheer luck, the fishermen of Amreli district were indeed lucky as they could spot a lion sitting on the edge of a rock at a beach in Jafrabad Port. But at the same time, it spread panic among the local residents and fishermen.
However, without moving from its spot towards the beach, dotted with people by that time, the lion dived into the sea water and started floating.
Forest officials were immediately informed and enthusiasts thronged the place to get a glimpse of the rare sight of a lion floating in sea water.
After the rescue team arrived, the lion was lifted from the water, tranquilised and sent to an animal care centre.
Officials said the lion will be under supervision for the time being and added that the animal would be released after proper treatment.
According to locals, the lion must have strayed into the port area from nearby forest of the Gir National Park. (ANI)