Sri Lanka Wildlife Census After Monkey Blackout

Sri Lanka has commenced a wildlife census to count monkeys, peacocks, and giant squirrels, aiming to manage these populations due to their significant impact on agriculture, which accounts for 8% of the national GDP and employs 8.1 million people. The census follows reports that these animals cause the loss of around 20% of agricultural production annually, including an estimated 90 million coconuts. The initiative comes after a monkey-induced nationwide blackout, emphasizing the pressing need for effective wildlife management policies. While the census aims to provide data for policy formulation, it has faced criticism for its limited scope, not accounting for nocturnal pests. Despite opposition claims of inefficiency, officials believe the results will be 80% accurate, aiding in addressing the crop damage issue. The census is seen as a crucial first step in tackling the agricultural challenges posed by wildlife in Sri Lanka.