First Newborn Leopard Cub Sighting in a Tree Hole with Mother at Yala National Park, Sri Lanka
Description
Abstract Introduction: The Sri Lankan leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya) is a sub species of the Panthera pardus family. It inhabits a variety of island’s habitats ranging from tropical rainforests to arid zone scrublands. This report documents the rare sighting of a newborn Sri Lankan leopard cub observed with its mother in a tree hole within Yala National Park, Sri Lanka. Results: On April 7, 2023, a female leopard and a newborn cub: estimated to be less than 10 days old, were sighted in a tree hole located approximately 15 feet above ground level. The mother leopard was observed nursing and grooming the cub, exhibiting relaxed yet vigilant behavior. The interaction was captured through high-resolution photography, capturing this rare display of maternal care and habitat use. Subsequent observations, including a follow-up sighting in 2024, indicated that the cub has continued to thrive, highlighting successful mother-cub bonding and survival. Discussion: This sighting marks the youngest leopard cub ever documented in the Yala National Park, Sri Lanka and highlights the suitability for leopard breeding within the ecosystem. These observations contribute to understanding critical aspects of leopard maternal care and habitat requirements, which impact the cub survival during early life. Continued conservation and research in Sri Lanka’s protected areas are essential to ensure the survival of this vulnerable species and its future within the island’s ecosystems.