A better world for wildlife

Ever since the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS) was established in 1894, they have worked tirelessly to ensure that nature and wildlife conservation has been practised in Sri Lanka. Initially starting as a game protection society, the WNPS evolved over the years to become a wildlife and nature conservation society by the 1970s. From its inception, the society was the only civil organization promoting fauna and flora protection, linked closely with the enactment of Sri Lanka’s wildlife protection legislation.

Today, it continues to maintain close links with the Departments of Wildlife Conservation and Forests.

Its primary role now is as a policy advocate and environmental educator. It publishes two bi-annual journals and maintains three park lodges for its members. The President of the WNPS Douglas B. Ranasinghe said that this time they are bringing their beautiful greeting featuring the talent of the finest wildlife photographers. Greeting cards will be available for sale at their office at 86, Rajamalwatta Road, Battaramulla. “We are giving a special discounted rate from Rs.25 per card to Rs.23 per card”, said Douglas. The WNPS manages with the donations from the members, subscribers to their publication ‘Loris’ and the sale of their New Year greeting cards.

In keeping with their aims, the objectives of the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society of Sri Lanka is the prevent the destruction and harmful commercial exploitation of species of wild animals and plants, and wherever desirable and possible, to preserve wildlife intact in natural conditions in Sri Lanka. “We also assist in protecting nature in all its forms, such as landscape, soil, water, flora, fauna, marine habitats and to conserve it for future generations and co-operate actively with other persons and organisations in Sri Lanka and in other countries in the interests of nature conservation and to give support for study and research concerning wildlife”, said Douglas who said that anyone with a love for nature can apply as a member to the WNPS. At the moment, they are joining forces with NatureLife International, Germany to reforest a hill in Diyapotha, Maduraeliya where they have got 2000 Euros with another 2000 Euros promised to beautify the area. The WNPS has also steered the butterfly societies which have got children interested in nature and wildlife.

“Our butterfly societies in schools around the island are very successful and we hope to implement more in the future”, said Douglas.

All in all, the success of the WNPS has been a reality with a strong member committee to steer the interest of nature and wildlife conservation in the right direction.