Leopocon Sri Lanka, Colombo, Western, Colombo (2026)

29/03/2026

Understanding the Bambaragasthalawa Leopard Incident 🐾️

Recent incidents in Bambaragasthalawa have raised understandable concern following the tragic death of a monk. It is important to approach this situation with facts and clarity rather than fear.

The Sri Lankan leopard is naturally a shy and elusive animal that avoids humans. However, under certain conditions, behaviour can shift. Based on available observations, this does not appear to be a random attack. The evidence points toward a predatory incident that occurred under low-risk conditions. The monk was alone, in a quiet cave environment with limited visibility, which from a leopard’s perspective creates an opportunity for ambush similar to its natural hunting behaviour.

The most concerning aspect is that the animal returned to feed. This suggests it did not associate the encounter with danger. While this does not confirm the presence of a “man-eater,” it does indicate a higher-risk individual that could repeat such behaviour if the same conditions persist.

It is also important to understand that this is not typical leopard behaviour across Sri Lanka. This appears to be a localized situation rather than a widespread threat. Leopards do not naturally prefer humans as prey. However, Kudumbigala is a shared landscape where forest, rocky terrain, and human activity overlap closely. When individuals move or stay alone in such environments, especially during low-light periods, the risk increases.

Avoiding solitary movement in forested areas, especially at dawn, dusk, or night, is critical. Staying in exposed caves or isolated shelters should be reconsidered. Increasing awareness among nearby communities and religious sites, along with proper monitoring to identify and track the individual animal, is essential at this stage.

This is a moment for awareness and precaution, not panic. Protecting human life must remain the priority, supported by a clear understanding of wildlife behaviour.

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.

18/08/2025

❗️ Counter-Argument to the Daily Mirror Article on Leopards in Hill Country

The recent article in the Daily Mirror highlighting incidents of leopards preying on dogs in the hill country raises significant concerns, not only about human-wildlife interactions but also about the way such stories are framed and communicated to the public. While the incident captured on CCTV in Ginigathhena is factual, the framing of the story risks creating unnecessary public panic and hostility towards leopards, an already endangered species in Sri Lanka.

🛑 Misrepresentation of Leopard Behavior

Leopards are apex predators that play a critical ecological role. When their natural prey base declines, as suggested by the reduction of wild boar due to disease, they may turn to alternative food sources. This is not “abnormal” behavior, nor does it indicate an increase in leopard aggression towards humans. By disproportionately emphasizing pet predation, the article creates the impression that leopards are increasingly “targeting” human settlements, which is misleading and fosters fear rather than understanding.

🛑 Ethical Responsibility in Media Reporting

Media outlets have a duty to uphold accuracy, fairness, and responsibility in reporting. Articles that sensationalize wildlife incidents without proper context risk aggravating public sentiment, leading to harmful consequences such as retaliation killings, fearmongering, and weakening of conservation efforts. Responsible reporting should:

ℹ️ Provide ecological context (e.g., why prey decline alters predator movement).

ℹ️ Highlight solutions (e.g., secure enclosures for dogs at night).

ℹ️ Avoid anthropomorphizing or dramatizing wildlife behavior.

ℹ️ Recognize that leopards are a protected and endangered species, and careless framing can endanger their survival.

🛑 The Risk of Public Nuisance and Backlash

When media narratives fuel fear, they inadvertently encourage harmful actions towards wildlife. There are documented cases where misinformation and panic have led to the persecution of leopards across Sri Lanka. Instead of promoting coexistence, such reporting can aggravate communities against leopards, undermining years of conservation and education work.

The Way Forward 🐾

☑️ We urge the Daily Mirror and other media platforms to:

☑️️ Report wildlife incidents with ecological and conservation context.

☑️️ Consult with wildlife experts before publishing sensitive content.

☑️️ Uphold media ethics by avoiding alarmist tones that may cause public nuisance or panic.

☑️ Promote coexistence strategies such as secure dog enclosures, awareness campaigns, and wildlife monitoring programs.

Leopards are not “problem animals.” They are part of Sri Lanka’s natural heritage. Media has the power to shape public perception and policy, either towards fear and persecution or towards coexistence and conservation. The choice lies in ethical, balanced, and responsible journalism.

Link for the said post by Daily Mirror : https://www.facebook.com/share/p/174zsw5Veu/

Team Leopocon

25/07/2025

Extended deadline! October 1, 2025

The Draft National Action Plan & Policy on Sri Lankan Leopard Conservation aims to protect our island’s apex predator through habitat preservation, conflict mitigation, and community engagement. Led by Leopocon Sri Lanka and the Ministry of Environment, it tackles threats like habitat loss and poaching. Share your feedback by the extended deadline of October 1, 2025, to help secure a future for the Sri Lankan leopard! 🐆

15/06/2025

📢 Have Your Say: Draft National Policy & Action Plan for Sri Lankan Leopard Conservation 🐆

Leopocon Sri Lanka is proud to announce the release of the Draft National Leopard Conservation Policy and National Action Plan (NAP), a significant milestone in protecting the iconic Panthera pardus kotiya.

This policy and plan are the result of extensive analysis, consultation, and integration of local and global best practices. Now, we want to hear from YOU!

🔍 We invite researchers, conservationists, government officials, community members, legal professionals, tourism stakeholders, and the general public to review and provide your valuable feedback.

🗓️ Deadline: 25th July 2025

📩 If you would like to review the documents or collaborate with us, please drop your email address in the comments or DM us directly, and we’ll send the drafts to you.

Together, let’s shape a future where the Sri Lankan leopard thrives in harmony with people and nature. 🌿💚

05/06/2025

Leopocon Sri Lanka Submits Draft National Leopard Conservation Policy and Action Plan on World Environment Day

On the occasion of World Environment Day, Leopocon Sri Lanka proudly marked a historic milestone in the nation’s efforts to protect its most iconic apex predator, the Sri Lankan Leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya). In a significant step forward, the Draft National Policy and Draft National Action Plan (NAP) on Leopard Conservation were officially handed over to the Minister of Environment, Dr. Dammika Patabendi, the Deputy Minister, Mr. Anton Jayakody, and the Secretary to the Ministry of Environment, Mr. Rohitha Uduwawala.

This achievement is the result of extensive collaboration between Team Leopocon and a wide network of environmentalists, scientists, conservationists, and community partners. Drawing from the best available global practices while being grounded in Sri Lanka’s unique environmental and socio-cultural context, the draft Policy and NAP offer a comprehensive, strategic framework to safeguard the future of the Sri Lankan Leopard. The documents address urgent and long-term challenges, including habitat loss, human-leopard conflict, population monitoring, community engagement, law enforcement, and public education.

As part of the next phase, both the Draft Policy and NAP will be formally shared with the Director General of the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) and other relevant government authorities and responsible officials to obtain their technical feedback and guidance.

Simultaneously, the documents will be made available for public review, inviting conservationists, researchers, local communities, policymakers, and concerned citizens to contribute meaningfully to the finalization process. This inclusive approach will help shape a well-informed, broadly supported, and implementable strategy for the protection of this nationally endangered species.

In addition to policy work, Leopocon Sri Lanka, in partnership with Puredale and the Lanka Environmental Fund (LEF), is also supporting frontline conservation efforts. As part of this commitment, essential equipment will be provided to the Department of Wildlife Conservation to strengthen leopard conservation programs in selected wildlife ranges. These resources, to be delivered in the coming months, will directly enhance field operations, monitoring efforts, and conflict mitigation work. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Puredale for their generous support and to LEF for their instrumental role in coordination.

This World Environment Day, we call upon all stakeholders, from government institutions to grassroots communities to join us in shaping the future of leopard conservation in Sri Lanka. Let this be more than a symbolic gesture; let it be the foundation for lasting, science-based, and inclusive action to protect a species that symbolizes the wild spirit of our island. Together, we can ensure a safer, more secure future for the Sri Lankan Leopard.

29/05/2025

🖤 FIVE YEARS REMEMBERED 🐆

May 29, 2020 - May 29, 2025

Today marks five years since we lost something irreplaceable, Sri Lanka's magnificent black leopard, trapped and killed by a wire snare in the hills of Hatton. This wasn't just another wildlife casualty. This was the loss of a genetic marvel, a creature so rare that only a handful have ever walked our island. But the tragedy didn't end there.

In these five years, we've lost over 70 more leopards to human-induced deaths. Wire snares, vehicle strikes, poisoning, habitat destruction, we are systematically erasing our own natural heritage. Yet there is hope in remembrance.

Every time we share this story, we honor not just one black leopard, but every spotted soul we've failed to protect. Every conversation about coexistence matters. Every snare removed saves a life. Every child who learns to love leopards instead of fear them becomes a guardian for the future.

Our leopards are not just surviving - they're trying to thrive. But they need us to be better neighbors, better protectors, better humans.

The way forward is simple:
🔹 Report illegal snares to wildlife authorities
🔹 Support local conservation organizations & Conservationists
🔹 Choose eco-friendly tourism that protects habitats
🔹 Educate others about human-wildlife coexistence
🔹 Demand stronger enforcement of wildlife protection laws

At Leopocon, we're turning grief into action. Our conservation work focuses on:
🐆 Anti-snaring operations and trap removal
🐆 Community education and awareness programs
🐆 Research and monitoring of leopard populations
🐆 Human-leopard conflict mitigation
🐆 Habitat protection and restoration initiatives

Together, we're working to ensure no more Leopards are lost to preventable tragedies.

Five years later, the question remains: Will we be the generation that saved the Sri Lankan leopard, or the one that watched it disappear?
The choice is ours. The time is now.

In memory of the black leopard and all the spotted souls we've lost along the way.

Team Leopocon

10/03/2025

Celebrating 5 Years of Conservation: Leopocon Sri Lanka’s Ongoing Commitment

Five years ago, Leopocon Sri Lanka was founded with a vision: to protect the Sri Lankan leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya) and promote human-wildlife coexistence. Today, as we celebrate this milestone, we reflect on a journey marked by scientific research, community-driven conservation, and unwavering dedication to leopard protection.

Our Ongoing Conservation Efforts 🐾️

Over the past five years, we have launched and sustained several impactful projects aimed at securing the future of Sri Lanka’s most elusive predator:

🟢 The Carnivore Project – A citizen science-driven initiative collecting data on leopard sightings, habitat use, and movement patterns through community participation, camera trapping, and leopard identification techniques.

🟢 Co-Existence Project – Focused on community engagement, education, conflict resolution, and policy development, this project promotes harmonious human-leopard interactions through awareness programs and research-based solutions.

🟢 Guardian of the Wild – A citizen-led anti-poaching initiative that mobilizes communities, technology, and legal advocacy to combat poaching, particularly targeting the rampant use of wire snares and illegal wildlife trade.

🟢 Leopard Mortality Research – An ongoing study analyzing human-caused leopard deaths, identifying high-risk areas, major threats, and conservation priorities. This research integrates citizen science and legal interventions to enhance protections for leopards.

Each of these projects represents a step forward in understanding, protecting, and coexisting with Sri Lanka’s apex predator. Through science, community action, and conservation-driven policies, we have made significant strides in mitigating threats and fostering a future where leopards and humans can thrive together.

A Future Built on Collaboration and Commitment
As we mark our 5th anniversary, we recognize that conservation is a collective effort. Over the years, Leopocon Sri Lanka has empowered local communities, strengthened research, influenced policy, and raised awareness on the urgent need to protect our leopards.

This journey would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our partners, collaborators, and dedicated conservationists. We extend our deepest gratitude to:

🤝 Partner organizations, research institutions, and conservation groups that have worked alongside us, providing expertise, resources, and support.
🤝 Local communities and citizen scientists who have played a crucial role in monitoring leopards, reporting threats, and advocating for coexistence.
🤝 Wildlife authorities, policymakers, and law enforcement for their commitment to strengthening legal protections and ensuring a safer future for leopards.
🤝 Donors, sponsors, and volunteers whose generosity and dedication have fueled our conservation efforts.

This anniversary is not just a celebration of our achievements but also a renewed commitment to our mission. The road ahead demands stronger collaborations, innovative solutions, and continuous dedication to ensuring that Sri Lanka’s leopards remain a thriving part of our biodiversity.

To all who have been part of this journey—thank you! Your passion and efforts drive Leopocon Sri Lanka forward. Together, let’s continue to safeguard Sri Lanka’s most iconic predator for generations to come.

Here’s to many more years of conservation success! 🎉🐆

Team Leopocon

07/03/2025

Media Statement from Leopocon Sri Lanka on Recent Leopard Deaths

Leopocon Sri Lanka is deeply saddened to report a series of leopard deaths from various parts of the country, highlighting the growing threats faced by this iconic species. In recent weeks, multiple incidents have been recorded, including leopards falling victim to snares, vehicle collisions, habitat destruction, and retaliatory killings by humans.

Sri Lanka is home to the majestic Sri Lankan leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya), a species endemic to the island and classified as "Vulnerable" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). With an already declining population, each loss is a significant blow to the survival of this keystone predator, which plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance in our forests.

The primary threats to leopard survival include habitat fragmentation due to deforestation, poaching, human-wildlife conflict, and increasing encroachments into their natural habitats. The recent incidents further underscore the urgent need for stronger conservation efforts, community awareness, and policy interventions to protect Sri Lanka’s leopards from further decline.

Leopocon Sri Lanka calls upon:

Authorities to enforce stricter measures against poaching and illegal activities endangering wildlife.

Conservation organizations to strengthen collaborative efforts in habitat restoration and anti-snare initiatives.

Communities to participate in coexistence programs and avoid harmful practices like setting snares, which unintentionally kill leopards and other wildlife.

The public to report any illegal activities harming leopards and to support conservation efforts through responsible eco-tourism and education.

Leopocon Sri Lanka remains committed to safeguarding the country’s leopard population through scientific research, conservation action, and advocacy. We urge all stakeholders to unite in protecting these magnificent creatures before it is too late.

For further information, please contact:
Leopocon Sri Lanka Email: [email protected]
Phone: +94 71 193 2422
Website: www.leopocon.lk

Wildlife Emergency Hotlines:
Wildlife Department Hotline: +94 11 2 888 585
Emergency Hotline: 1992

End of Statement

03/03/2025

🐾 World Wildlife Day: Protecting Sri Lanka’s Natural Treasures

Sri Lanka is a biodiversity hotspot, home to iconic species like the majestic Asian elephant, the elusive leopard, the rare pangolin, and countless other creatures that define our island’s unique ecosystems. From the misty montane forests of Horton Plains to the lush rainforests of Sinharaja and the vast dry plains of Yala, our wildlife thrives in landscapes that have existed for centuries.

Yet today, these incredible species face unprecedented threats—deforestation, habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, illegal poaching, and climate change are pushing many towards extinction. As forests are cleared for development and agriculture, elephants lose their migratory paths, leading to increasing conflicts with humans. Leopards fall victim to snares and poisoning, and marine life suffers from pollution and overfishing. These challenges demand urgent action.

🌏 Why should we care?
Sri Lanka’s wildlife is not just a source of national pride; it is deeply intertwined with our culture, economy, and well-being. From ecotourism providing livelihoods to rural communities, to forests acting as natural buffers against climate change, protecting nature means securing our own future.

🌱 What can we do?

Sri Lanka’s wildlife is facing growing threats, and protecting it requires collective action. We must support habitat conservation efforts and advocate for stronger environmental policies to safeguard our forests and ecosystems. Promoting sustainable land-use practices can help reduce human-wildlife conflict, ensuring a future where people and animals coexist peacefully. Combating poaching and illegal wildlife trade is crucial, and spreading awareness while supporting enforcement efforts can make a significant impact. Reducing plastic waste and pollution is essential to protect our marine and freshwater ecosystems, which are home to countless species. Every action we take today—whether through advocacy, sustainable practices, or conscious lifestyle choices—can help secure Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity for future generations.

On this World Wildlife Day, let’s stand together to protect and preserve Sri Lanka’s rich natural heritage. Conservation is not just the responsibility of a few—it requires the collective effort of communities, policymakers, and individuals like YOU. Every action counts. The future of our wildlife depends on what we do today!

Share this message and be a voice for the wild!

31/12/2024

In 2024, Sri Lanka has witnessed a concerning rise in leopard deaths, primarily due to snares and human-induced causes. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need to address human-leopard misunderstandings and conflicts. As human activities encroach upon leopard habitats, these majestic creatures face increasing threats. It's imperative that we enhance conservation efforts, raise awareness, and promote coexistence to protect Sri Lanka's leopards from further decline.

03/12/2024

ROAD KILL! 2024.12.02

Local neighbors provided the Department of Wildlife with information that led to the recovery of a female leopard's carcass following an automobile accident. The leopardess attempted to cross two forest parts that had previously been designated as wildlife corridor. In the same area, this was the second leopard death linked to a car accident, and it was recorded nearer the first incident.

ඊයේ රාත්‍රියේ සිදු වූ අනතුරකින් පෙර හදුනාගත් වනජීවි කොරිඩෝවක් තුලින් පාර හරහා මාරු වීමට ගිය කොටිදෙනූවක් රථයක ගැටීමෙන් පසුව මිය ගොස් තිබුනා. ප්‍රදේශ වාසීන්ගේ දැනුවත් කිරීම් වල⁣ට අනුව වනජීවි සංරක්ෂණ දෙපාර්තමේන්තු නිලධාරීන් විසින් සිරුර වැඩිදුර පර්යේෂණ සඳහා ඔවුන්ගේ භාරයට ලබා ගත් අතර වැඩිදුර විමර්ශන ක්‍රියාත්මකයි.

Photos by - D. Ratnayake
Special thanks goes to Thilanka Bodhikotuwa for the info

Leopocon Sri Lanka

29/03/2026

04/01/2026

18/08/2025

25/07/2025

15/06/2025

05/06/2025

29/05/2025

10/03/2025

07/03/2025

03/03/2025

31/12/2024

03/12/2024

Address

Website

Alerts

Contact The Organization

Shortcuts

Share

Category