Police to net those who set traps on estates

More than 25 leopards killed during past 15 months

By Ifham Nizam

The Wildlife Department has warned plantation companies that legal action will be taken against them if wild animals are caught in snares placed on their estates. In recent years, a large number of wild animals including leopards and sambur had died in traps, a senior Wildlife official yesterday said, adding that a leopard in Dick Oya and a sambur in Lakshapana had been caught in traps recently.

The Wildlife Department officers at Nallathanniya office managed to rescue the animals, which were released into the Randenigala sanctuary.

“We have asked estates to remove snares immediately,” the official added. “We also urge the public to use our hotline (1992) if they see anyone using snares.”

The department says between 25 and 30 leopards have been killed during the past 15 months or so.

Dr. Tharaka Prasad, Director (Health) – Department of Wildlife Conservation said that in recent months, the number of leopard deaths caused by snares had increased alarmingly.

The Wildlife Department, with the help of the police, has launched a special programme to prevent the killing of leopards. They are planning public awareness programme.