Sri Lanka, Sept. 6 -- Local media reported that the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWLC) has increased efforts to combat illegal poaching in Sri Lanka's wildlife reserves following a surge in wildlife deaths.

Patrol measures have been increased in areas identified as poaching hotspots, with authorities urging the public to report poachers via the hotline 1992 to support these efforts.

According to official data, elephant and leopard deaths are rising at an alarming rate.

In the first eight months of 2025, 268 elephants have been killed, with 47 by gunfire, 40 by electrocution, 13 by trains, and 26 by 'hakka patas' explosives hidden in food. In 2024, a total of 248 elephants died from various causes.

Meanwhile, 13 leopards have b...