Celebrating the Iconic Sri Lankan Leopard
Every year, the 01st of August is dedicated towards the largest apex predator that roams our nation’s forests, the Sri Lankan leopard. However, even as we commemorate this iconic species, we also recognize the need for its conservation.
In view of the enormous risks posed to the lives of leopards residing within this island nation, in 2021 the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS) took steps to establish a day set aside for recognising and celebrating the Sri Lankan species, with the support of the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC). The 01st of August was chosen based on its significance, as it marked the date Dr. Sriyanie Miththapala published a thesis confirming the existence of this endemic subspecies, under the classification Panthera pardus kotiya.
The Sri Lankan leopard, which resides both within and outside protected zones, face harsh conditions, and wide-ranging challenges that continue to intensify daily. As the nation’s oldest and foremost environmental organisation, the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS), supported by the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC), has initiated a range of projects to address this current state of affairs.
This year, coinciding with Sri Lanka Leopard Day, renowned Indian Leopard expert Dr. Vidya Athreya from the Jawaharlal Nehru Center for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) pays a visit to our shores, armed with countless years of experience and insights into wildlife conservation within the Asian region.
The leopard plays multiple roles in safeguarding our environment, while enabling economic growth. At present, they organically control the population of herbivores within our forests, and their loss will undoubtedly disrupt the delicate balance of our natural ecosystems. Furthermore, it serves as a leading tourist attraction, and is a great strength to the tourist industry, with local and foreign tourists alike flocking to our national parks to witness this breathtaking creature in action. In view of its significance to our nation’s future, it is an imperative that this member of the cat family be protected and conserved today, and in the years to come.
