Leopard Deaths in Sri Lanka Rise as Snares Threaten Endangered Population

A leopard has died in the Maskeliya area, adding to the growing number of leopard deaths in Sri Lanka. The cause of death was a snare, raising concerns among authorities about the increasing threat to the country’s leopard population. This incident brings the total number of leopards lost in Sri Lanka to nine in 2024 so far.

LEOPOCON Sri Lanka, an organization focused on leopard conservation, reports that nine leopards have died in 2024 alone, with most deaths caused by snares. This is a troubling trend that needs urgent attention and action to prevent more losses.

The numbers show a worrying pattern: nine leopard deaths were reported in 2021, 13 in 2022, and a total of 50 over the past decade, all due to snares. These traps pose a serious threat to the already vulnerable leopard population, pushing them closer to extinction.

The main reasons for this crisis are deforestation caused by agricultural expansion and urban development. As forests are cleared for farming and housing, leopards lose essential habitats. According to a CNN report, 70% of their natural environment has already been destroyed.

This issue is urgent, as only an estimated 750 to 1,000 adult leopards remain in Sri Lanka. Conservationists and authorities are under increasing pressure to implement and enforce strict measures to protect the remaining leopards and their habitats. (LankaXpress.com)