Leopard’s death at Luccombe Estate sparks urgent calls for action

Colombo, September 02 -  A leopard's death at Luccombe Estate in Maskeliya has raised alarm among conservationists including the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS).

According to WNPS, the leopard's death has been attributed to delays in medical assistance, exacerbated by the absence of nearby veterinary facilities. Despite the prompt arrival of officials at the scene, the lack of a veterinary unit in the region proved fatal. 

The WNPS emphasized that the absence of qualified veterinary staff and properly equipped facilities in key areas like Hatton and Nallathanniya has been a longstanding issue, often leading to the unnecessary loss of wildlife.

In response to the incident, the WNPS has urged tea estate managers and other private landowners in leopard habitats to take proactive steps to ensure their lands are free of snares and other threats. 

The organization stressed that the responsibility to protect endangered species like the Sri Lankan leopard is shared by all, and estate managers play a crucial role. Regular land inspections and collaboration with conservation groups for training and awareness are among the measures recommended to prevent such incidents.

As such, the WNPS demands accountability from those involved in the incident and is calling on authorities to enforce stricter regulations against illegal snaring. The organization advocates for increased penalties and regular patrols to deter poaching and better protect Sri Lanka's wildlife.