04/01/2026
Summary of Leopard Conservation and Incident Records – 2025
The year 2025 marked a significant period for leopard conservation efforts in Sri Lanka, both in terms of documented incidents and sustained field, policy, and community work led by Leopocon. Based on compiled records, at least twenty leopard-related incidents were reported across multiple districts, including Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ratnapura, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Mullaitivu, Monaragala, Matara, and Matale. These incidents occurred across diverse landscapes, including forest reserves, estates, plantations, and residential or mixed-use areas, highlighting the continued overlap between leopard habitats and human activities.
The data indicate that the majority of recorded cases involved adult leopards, with several confirmed male and female individuals and some cases where s*x or maturity could not be identified. Causes of mortality and injury included snares, poisoning, gunshot wounds, road kills, and territorial or animal-related conflict. Several cases involved animals found dead or beyond rescue, while others resulted in the recovery of body parts or teeth, underscoring the persistent threats from illegal activities and habitat pressure. Estate and plantation landscapes continued to feature prominently, reinforcing the need for targeted conflict mitigation and monitoring in these areas.
Throughout 2025, Leopocon remained actively engaged in leopard conservation through field monitoring, incident documentation, coordination with authorities, and community-based reporting mechanisms. The organisation supported rapid information sharing with relevant agencies, assisted in awareness efforts at the local level, and contributed to broader discussions on human–leopard coexistence. Parallel to field activities, Leopocon also contributed to national-level conservation dialogue, including engagement related to the National Action Plan and associated wildlife conservation policy processes. These efforts aimed to ensure that on-the-ground realities were reflected in policy discussions and future planning.
Leopocon acknowledges with regret that some planned activities and follow-up actions experienced delays during the year due to unforeseen circumstances. We sincerely apologise to our stakeholders and partners for any inconvenience caused and thank them for their patience and continued trust. These challenges have also provided valuable lessons that will inform more resilient planning and coordination in the coming years.
We extend our sincere appreciation to the Lanka Environmental Fund, Puredale, and Dilmah Conservation for their continued financial and institutional support, without which much of this work would not have been possible. We are deeply grateful to the Department of Wildlife Conservation and its dedicated officers for their immense support, professionalism, and commitment to wildlife conservation while carrying out their demanding duties. Our thanks also go to the Forest Department for its consistent cooperation and support throughout the year.
We further acknowledge the vital role played by civil society organisations and local communities, whose timely information, cooperation, and willingness to engage remain central to effective conservation outcomes. Finally, we thank the Government of Sri Lanka for its support, particularly in relation to the National Action Plan and broader policy initiatives that strengthen the long-term framework for leopard conservation.
As we move forward, Leopocon remains committed to strengthening partnerships, improving response mechanisms, and advancing evidence-based conservation actions to ensure a more secure future for Sri Lanka’s leopards and the landscapes they share with people.
