Census of Wild Animals in Home Gardens to Be Conducted on March 15

A nationwide census of wild animals roaming around homesteads and cultivated lands will be conducted on March 15, according to Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Namal Karunaratne.

Homeowners will be required to count the number of specific wild animals present in their gardens and submit the information within a five-minute timeframe. The data collected will help assess the distribution of these animals across different regions.

Speaking at a media briefing in Colombo today (March 1), Deputy Minister Karunaratne stated:

"We have designated March 15 for a census of langurs, porcupines, and peafowls. A five-minute observation period will be given, during which residents must count the number of these animals in their home gardens or farms. All officers in Grama Niladhari divisions will be involved in coordinating the process and informing the public.

If there are unoccupied lands, officers will assign a nearby resident to conduct the count in those areas as well. The five-minute timeframe is necessary because these animals may move to other locations quickly.

Once collected, the information will be submitted through the respective officials to the Ministry. This census will provide valuable insights into the population of these species in different regions and across the country, aiding in conservation and wildlife management efforts."