Colombo, March 5 -- Notwithstanding significant criticism from relevant stakeholders including environmentalists, the government has decided to go ahead with the proposed animal census covering the entire country.

Speaking to Daily Mirror, Director Wildlife Health at Department of Wildlife Conservation Dr. Tharaka Prasad said the census covers the animals such as giant squirrels, peacocks, macaques and monkeys, who are responsible for crop-damaging.

"This census, first of this nature in the history of Sri Lanka, will take place on March 15, with officials tasked with counting the animals within a five-minute timeframe from 8.00 to 8.05 am. As such, the farmers and villagers are requested to cooperate,"

Dr Prasad said all government off...