Sri Lanka is a wildlife paradise, One of the best countries for Wildlife Tours and Safaris. Sri Lankan Leopard, the largest predator on the Island is one of the most beautiful and eye catching sight in Sri Lankan wilderness. Leopards can be spotted in Yala National Park, Wilpattu National Park, Wasgamuwa National Park, Gal Oya National Park and Udawalawa National Park. Sri Lankan Leopard is a must view in your Holidays in Sri Lanka.
Yala National Park has the world’s highest leopard density. Sri Lankan Leopard’s Scientific name is Panthera pardus kotiya.
Sri Lankan Leopards are smaller than Indian leopards, the coat is yellow/dusty light brown adorned with black spotted rosettes. There are individual markings which are unique to each leopard. Average female leopard is about3 ft 5-9 in (1.05 -1.14 m) with a 2 ft 4-9 in (74-84 cm) long tail and average male leopard is about 4 ft 2-8 in (1.28 -1.42 m) with a 3 ft 2 in (86-97 cm) long tail.
Leopards are solitary hunters, except a mother with babies. Their hunting style is unique comparing to other carnivorous animals. The Sri Lankan leopard quietly stalk its prey, and releases a burst of speed and jumps on its prey. The prey is normally dispatched with a one fierce grip at the throat. Like cats, leopards prey on smaller animals such as deer, monkey, reptiles.
Leopards used to appear in all habitats through out the country. But now, due to the increased human population and growing cities, this valuable creature’s habitats are threatened.
JourneyScapes’s Wildlife Sri Lanka is a very popular wildlife tour program. This tour ensures you see all the main wildlife national parks in Sri Lanka. Bird Watching, Elephant Gathering, Safaries all are included in Wildlife Sri lanka Tour.