The local name of the species is derived from the Sanskrit name ‘Chitrul’ which means spotted. The males possess antlers which are absent in females. This is the most common and only spotted deer in the country. Its coat varies geographically, becoming redder in southern India.

Globally Asiatic lions are found only in India in Gir wildlife sanctuary across Gujrat state. It lives in small pride comprising 2-5 females with their young. Males join in only to eat and mate. Female lions are the pride's primary hunters & work together to prey upon large mammals.