​The Sri Lankan leopard is the only large terrestrial predator in Sri Lanka, yet it remains a threatened species, due primarily to habitat loss and fragmentation. Through long term research of the leopard and understanding its land-use, the WWCT aims to conserve the Sri Lankan leopard in its natural habitat and by doing so, influence larger biodiversity and landscape conservation on this island.

​Land use change, post-war development and human encroachment have drastically reduced wilderness areas in Sri Lanka. Through the research and understanding of how wildlife uses this remaining wilderness, the WWCT aims to identify vital connections and lands for targeted conservation and regeneration where possible, to the benefit of all biodiversity in Sri Lanka.

The Corridors for Conservation (CC) initiative is the outcome of many years of research by the WWCT team in Sri Lanka’s southern Central Highlands, research which began in 2016. The death of 10 leopards caught in wire snares set for other wildlife, that had indiscriminately killed leopards, brought to our attention the need for understanding leopard land use in this heavily human altered plantation landscape. Identifying how the leopard utilizes these lands, and where it seeks refuge, is the basis of this initiative. Via collaborative conservation efforts by multiple partners invested in these lands, Corridors for Conservation aims to lend protection and restore parts of these identified land corridors.

A key component in any conservation action; the education and awareness of communities living with wildlife, and within and adjacent to wild spaces, is vital. The WWCT ‘s outreach work focuses on increasing the understanding of living in co-existence with wildlife and increasing the value placed on wilderness spaces.