Buddhist monks, scientists and wildlife activists urge humane, scientific reforms to save Sri Lanka’s wildlife

A powerful alliance of Buddhist clergy, conservation scientists, animal welfare advocates, and corporate representatives has called on the government to abandon ad hoc animal control strategies and adopt science-backed, humane, and sustainable policies to protect Sri Lanka's animals and ecosystems.

- By IrHaM NIZAM

Speaking at a landmark press conference in Colombo, Venerable Pagoda Janithawansha Thera delivered a stirring appeal on behalf of Sri Lanka’s imperiled elephant population.

“Elephants are not just cultural icons — they are central to the biodiversity of our land,” he said. “Our failure to protect them is a moral failure, and one we must urgently correct with evidence-based strategies.”

He cited leading elephant expert Dr. Prithiviraj Fernando, who has shown that while only 30% of the elephants’ natural habitat falls within designated protected areas, 70% of them now roam shared landscapes with humans — a recipe for continued conflict if mismanaged.

The Thera pointed out that attempts to forcibly confine elephants to protected zones have not worked. “We must stop shortsighted decisions and look at successful, long-term strategies — such as community-built and maintained electric fencing, which has proven to reduce conflict.”

The toll on elephants is harrowing. Between 2015 and 2024, nearly 600 elephants were killed — mostly in conflict with humans. And the trend shows no signs of slowing down. Just seven months into 2025, 224 elephant deaths have already been reported.