Safeguard the Sri Lankan Leopard – A Guardian of Balance. A Shared Responsibility.

The Sri Lankan Leopard is more than a symbol of wilderness — it is a guardian of balance, a quiet regulator of life, and a keeper of forests that sustain water, soil, climate, and communities.

Protecting the Sri Lankan Leopard is not about saving a single species — it is about protecting the land that protects us.

Safeguard the Sri Lankan Leopard is DFCC Bank’s socially responsible educational and awareness initiative, inspiring action to conserve this iconic species and the habitats it depends on.

Why the Sri Lankan Leopard Matters

As Sri Lanka’s apex predator, the leopard plays a critical role in maintaining ecological balance:

• Regulates prey populations and prevents overgrazing

• Protects forest health and biodiversity

• Supports water, soil, and climate systems

Where the leopard thrives, the forest thrives. Where the forest thrives, Sri Lanka thrives.

When the leopard’s habitat is lost, the impacts extend far beyond the wild — affecting water security, soil fertility, agriculture, climate resilience, and community wellbeing.

Do You Know Me?

You may think you see me — a solitary shape, patterned in rosettes, moving silently through shadow and light. But I am more than that.

I am the balance that holds this island together. The quiet regulator of life. The unseen force that keeps the wilderness breathing.

Where I live, others survive. Where I roam, the land remembers its rhythm. From Wilpattu to Yala, Horton Plains to the central highlands — this island is my home. And when my home is destroyed, so is yours.

If I live, so will you.

The Growing Threat

Human activity continues to erode the leopard’s habitat:

• Deforestation and illegal land clearing

• Snare traps, poaching, and wildlife crime

• Encroachment and unplanned development

• Fragmentation of forest corridors

These actions lead to:

• Increased human–leopard conflict

• Loss of prey species

• Weakened forest ecosystems

• Threats to water and soil systems

• Loss of biodiversity and reduced climate resilience

Habitat loss is not just a wildlife issue — it is an environmental, economic, and national challenge.

Why It Matters to All of Us

Without the apex predator:

• Herbivore populations rise

• Forest cover declines

• Water sources degrade

• Crop damage increases

• Climate patterns destabilize

A healthy leopard population signals a healthy ecosystem — one that protects us from floods, droughts, soil erosion, and biodiversity loss.

If the leopard falls silent, the forest follows.

DFCC Bank’s Commitment

DFCC Bank’s commitment to conservation runs deep. We recognize that safeguarding what is wild and irreplaceable requires collective effort.

Through this initiative, DFCC Bank aims to:

• Raise awareness about the leopard’s ecological role

• Educate communities on the impacts of habitat loss

• Support conservation partners

• Inspire individuals and organisations to act for wildlife

Every one of us has a part to play in protecting the home we share and the beauty that makes this island ours.

How You Can Help

Every action counts. You can contribute by:

• Protecting habitat – Avoid practices that contribute to forest loss

• Supporting conservation initiatives – Engage responsibly with verified programs

• Staying vigilant – Report wildlife crimes or illegal land clearing

• Raising awareness – Share knowledge within your community

• Choosing sustainability – Make environmentally conscious decisions

Protecting the leopard is protecting the future of Sri Lanka.

Discover More

Explore resources to learn more about the leopard and its role in preserving Sri Lanka’s natural balance:

• Watch the Educational Video

• View the Educational Leaflet (PDF)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Why is the Sri Lankan Leopard important?

It regulates prey populations, protects forests, and supports healthy water, soil, and climate systems.

2. Is the Sri Lankan Leopard endangered?

Yes. Habitat loss, poaching, snares, and unplanned development threaten its survival.

3. How does leopard conservation help people?

Healthy ecosystems protect water, agriculture, climate resilience, and community wellbeing.

4. What is DFCC Bank doing?

We are raising awareness, supporting conservation partners, and educating communities.

5. How can I help?

Avoid deforestation practices, support conservation groups, report wildlife crimes, and make sustainable choices.

6. What should I do if I see wildlife crime or a snare?

Do not touch it. Report it immediately to the authorities.

7. Does this initiative include on-ground work?

Primarily awareness-driven, with collaborations supporting selected conservation activities.

8. Where can I learn more?

Via the educational video, leaflet, and DFCC sustainability resources.