Leopards feast on 29 chicks

By N.Arachchi  

A poultry farm in Higgoda, off Bulathkohupitiya, was attacked by leopards which devoured 29 chicks and injured the farm owner when he attempted to chase the animals away, residents said.  

Farm owner Amila Ranatunga said the incident occurred when three leopards broke into the poultry shed after pulling down zinc sheets covering the structure.   Ranatunga said he noticed the animals inside the farm and attempted to drive them away using a club.  

“I saw three large leopards inside the farm, and one of them was about four feet long. I tried to hit one of them with a club, but I lost my grip on it. When the leopard sprang toward me, I fell down and its claws injured my hand,” he said.  

He added that neighbours rushed to assist after hearing his cries for help and succeeded in scaring the animals away.  

Wildlife officers later visited the farm following information provided by residents and conducted an inspection at the site.  

Residents in the area have raised concerns over frequent leopard sightings near villages and urged authorities to take steps to prevent further incidents.