The Department of Wildlife Conservation has released 45 wild animals into suitable natural habitats after they recovered from injuries or illnesses at the Attidiya Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre.
The release took place on October 14 under the supervision of Wildlife Veterinarian Pramuditha Devasurendra, who heads the centre.
The animals released included six spotted deer, 13 grey langurs, one pangolin, one fishing cat, 11 snakes, eight star tortoises and six toque macaques.
The Attidiya Centre provides veterinary care to displaced, injured and sick wild animals found within the Western Wildlife Zone.
Wildlife officials noted that many animals brought to the centre have only minor injuries. They warned that unnecessarily removing wild animals from their natural habitats could cause further harm.
Such removal can cause psychological distress, particularly when young animals are separated from their mothers. Animals released into unfamiliar environments may also face attacks from other animals and struggle to survive due to changes in their surroundings.
The Department has therefore urged the public not to remove wild animals from their natural habitats unnecessarily. People should allow animals to remain in their natural environment and seek assistance from wildlife authorities when an animal is injured or requires professional care.
