First Newborn Leopard Cub Sighting in a Tree Hole with Mother at Yala
National Park, Sri Lanka
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.