The census is expected to provide essential insights into the population densities and distribution of these animals, enabling the government to craft a well-informed management plan. Conservationists and policymakers alike recognise the challenge of balancing biodiversity conservation with agricultural sustainability.

In an unprecedented initiative, Sri Lanka conducted its first-ever nationwide census to count animals notorious for damaging crops, including monkeys, squirrels, and peacocks. This participatory effort, held on March 15, was designed to help authorities gauge the extent of the human-wildlife conflict and develop sustainable strategies to mitigate agricultural losses.

The government called upon the public to count the four major crop-damaging species present in their home gardens, farmlands, and premises outside forested areas within a five-minute window from 8:00 to 8:05 a.m. The move comes as farmers increasingly voice concerns over the financial devastation caused by these animals.

The success of Sri Lanka’s nationwide wildlife census will depend on how effectively the collected data is analysed and used to implement tangible solutions, agriculture minister, K D Lalkantha said. “Experts stress that while the initiative marks a significant step forward, follow-through is essential,” he said. “Sustainable conservation strategies must balance agricultural interests with ecological integrity, ensuring that both farmers and wildlife can coexist harmoniously.”

“I don’t say this will be an accurate number. But we have to start somewhere. Sometimes, we may have to repeat this census again and again to get an accurate number,” Lalkantha added.

With mounting pressure from both agricultural communities and conservationists, the Sri Lankan government faces the critical task of transforming census findings into actionable policies. Whether through habitat restoration, eco-tourism development, or improved wildlife management strategies, the nation stands at a pivotal crossroads in its approach to human-wildlife interactions.

The minister said that as Sri Lanka moves forward, the challenge remains clear: finding sustainable, humane solutions that protect both livelihoods and biodiversity for future generations.

Growing farmers-wildlife conflict

Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity is both a source of pride and a growing concern. The unchecked population growth of monkeys, peacocks, and squirrels has led to significant agricultural damage. Toque monkeys and giant squirrels alone were responsible for the destruction of approximately 200 million coconuts, a previous government report indicated. Farmers across the country report extensive losses of fruits, vegetables, and grains due to wildlife encroachment, sparking calls for urgent intervention.

Agriculture Minister K.D. Lalkantha acknowledged the potential limitations of the census, noting that it may need to be repeated multiple times to achieve more precise results. Nevertheless, he emphasized that gathering initial data was a crucial step in addressing the issue.

Conservation versus control

The census is expected to provide essential insights into the population densities and distribution of these animals, enabling the government to craft a well-informed management plan. Conservationists and policymakers alike recognise the challenge of balancing biodiversity conservation with agricultural sustainability.

Historically, frustrated farmers have resorted to extreme measures such as poisoning and trapping to protect their crops. However, wildlife experts and animal rights activists argue for more humane, science-based interventions. Potential solutions include habitat management, sterilization programs, and relocation efforts.

Past government attempts to curb animal populations have faced significant resistance. In April 2023, authorities proposed exporting 100,000 toque monkeys to China, but international animal rights groups intervened, halting the initiative. The census aims to shift the focus from reactive measures to data-driven, long-term solutions.

Opposition leader calls for sweeping environmental reforms

As Sri Lanka grapples with the challenges of human-wildlife conflict, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has proposed comprehensive environmental and wildlife reforms. Speaking in Parliament during the budget committee debate on the environment sector, Premadasa outlined a series of strategic initiatives to promote conservation and sustainable development.

One of his key proposals is conducting a National Environmental System Assessment to enhance public awareness of biodiversity and its ecological significance. Premadasa underscored the need for a structured conservation strategy tailored to Sri Lanka’s unique geographical conditions, rather than relying on short-term fixes.

Premadasa also revisited the Environmental Planning Charter, which he initially introduced during the 2019 presidential election. This plan encompasses three major national projects focusing on the conservation of elephants, tigers, and whales.

Additionally, he called for a National Land Development and Physical Plan to prevent environmental degradation. His proposal includes initiatives to tackle pollution, deforestation, and soil erosion while promoting plastic waste reduction.

Eco-tourism and community-led conservation

The Opposition Leader emphasized that conservation efforts should align with the principles of a circular economy. He advocated for community-driven conservation programs and eco-tourism initiatives to generate foreign revenue while safeguarding Sri Lanka’s natural heritage. Drawing inspiration from India’s successful 1971-72 tiger conservation program, which revitalized both wildlife populations and tourism, he proposed similar efforts focused on Sri Lanka’s elephants, dolphins, and whales.

Addressing the persistent human-elephant conflict, Premadasa criticized the lack of a coherent, long-term strategy. He noted that despite the availability of global technological solutions, Sri Lanka has struggled to implement effective mitigation measures due to inconsistent policies and inadequate resources.

Strengthening the Wildlife Sector

Premadasa also highlighted the plight of underpaid and underutilized wildlife officers. He called for the permanent employment of experienced wildlife personnel who currently work under precarious conditions. Furthermore, he urged the government to conduct accurate wildlife censuses and utilize the findings to shape meaningful policies.

In a bid to position Sri Lanka as a leader in environmental research, Premadasa proposed the establishment of an International University for Environmental Studies. This institution would serve as a hub for wildlife conservation and national park research, fostering international collaboration and knowledge-sharing.