In Sri Lanka, volunteers and researchers survey owls at night along set routes to mark the International Owl Day. But what takes more effort is the public educational events to challenge deep-rooted superstitions about owls, which are generally viewed as a bad omen. This leads to persecution and eviction from nesting sites, even though species like barn owls provide valuable rodent control, hence being particularly useful in urban settings. by Malaka Rodrigo
Conservation news
With nocturnal surveys and awareness building, Sri Lanka steps up to protect its owls
COLOMBO — As darkness settled over Colombo on Aug. 3, a small group of young men, led by a zoology professor, slipped quietly into Sri Lanka’s ...
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The lion, with its majestic mane and the loudest growl of all the big cats, is today a vulnerable species with decreasing populations in extremely fragmented habitats. It once ranged widely throughout Africa and Eurasia; today, it’s restricted to parts of sub-Saharan Africa and one small area in western India. For #WorldLionDay on Aug. 10, Mongabay looks back at some of our coverage this year of the challenges that Panthera leo faces. Compiled by Kristine Sabillo
Conservation news
World lion day: Why is the king of the savanna declining?
The lion, with its majestic mane and the loudest growl of all the big cats, is today a vulnerable species with decreasing populations in extremely ...
In 2024, the Sri Lankan government revoked the protected status of an ecologically important mangrove forest. Environmental groups challenged the decision in court, calling for reinstatement of its former conservation status. On July 26 this year, to mark World Mangrove Day, Sri Lanka declared several new mangrove areas protected, reinforcing its global recognition as the Commonwealth mangrove “champion.” by Malaka Rodrigo
Conservation news
Sri Lanka plans restoring revoked protection for an important mangrove patch in the island’s North
Mannar, SRI LANKA — The Vidattaltivu Nature Reserve, nestled along Sri Lanka’s northwestern coast in the Mannar district, is home to one of the...
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