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Introduction to Carnivores of Sri Lanka

Carnivores have fascinated humans for centuries. We admire them -- and we fear them -- because of their power, their grace, and their secretive natures. Fear and ignorance have led to a dangerous decline in many of the world's big carnivores, especially felids (like lions and tigers), ursids (bears), and canids (wolves and wild dogs).

Dr. Shyamala Ratnayeke is studying many of the fourteen carnivore species found in her native Sri Lanka. At least four of these species have suffered significant population losses in recent years, due to habitat fragmentation, poaching, and other conflicts with humans. Of particular interest to Dr. Ratnayeke is the sloth bear, among the planet's lesser-known species of bears. She and her team are using radiocollars and remote cameras, as well as basic fieldwork techniques, to improve the world's understanding of the sloth bear and its fellow carnivores.


Learning About Sri Lanka's Carnivores on FTE 
( About The Project )
The "Sri Lanka's Carnivores" field trip on Field Trip Earth offers many articles and other resources for those wishing to learn more about the several species of carnivores found in that country. Detailed information about Sri Lankan carnivores is also found in several "site-wide" articles—see the full article for a list.
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Sloth Bear Research - Final Report 
( About The Project )
The sloth bear research team finishes its work in Sri Lanka, and makes recommendations for protecting the bear's future.
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Carnivore Research in Sri Lanka 
( About The Project )
Sri Lanka is home to a wide variety of carnivores, some large and some small. This article introduces the carnivores of that country, and also includes pictures (shot by remote camera) of many.
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On the Trail of the Sloth Bear 
( About The Species )
Sloth bear researcher Shyamala Ratnayeke provides an overview of the sloth bear: its ecology, its habitat, and its future in an increasingly threatening world.
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FAQ: Sloth Bears 
( About The Species )
Be in the know about the sloth bear, a little-known member of the Ursid family. Information about the sloth bear's size and weight, diet, reproduction, and conservation status is included.
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