Why We Catalog Sri Lanka Wildlife Heritage

"They are not mere statistics in conflict reports. Each tusker is an irreplaceable sovereign of the forest with a name, a gentle spirit, and an ancient lineage that belongs to all humanity."

Born From Tragedy: The Loss of Kawanthissa

Wanali was created in the wake of the heartbreaking loss of Kawanthissa, the towering 11-foot gentle giant of Galgamuwa and Usgala Siyambalangamuwa. In October 2026, despite weeks of public vigil and veterinary intervention, Kawanthissa collapsed and passed away from debilitating gunshot wounds. His death broke the heart of Sri Lanka and underscored an undeniable truth: if we do not meticulously record their identities, their habitats, and the perils they face, these legends will slip away into silent extinction.

Our Core Archival Pillars

1. Giving Every Giant a Name and Story

Media headlines often reduce wildlife deaths to sterile numbers. Wanali ensures that every tusker like Galgamuwa Dala Poottuwa, Revatha, Barana, and Kawanthissa is permanently remembered as an individual. We document their unique tusk curves, height, roaming territories, and gentle companionship with rural communities.

2. Transparent Ecological Accountability

By openly publishing cause of death records, whether from illegal high-voltage farm wires, crude explosive jaw-bombs (Hakka Patas), or trap guns, we shine an unyielding spotlight on the threats destroying Sri Lanka rarest animals. True conservation begins with honest documentation.

3. Defending the Living Icons

Cataloging is not just about memorializing the fallen. It is an active protective shield for survivors like Thirappane Agbo and Podi Dala Poottuwa. When citizens know their names and watch their journeys across seasonal water tanks, communities become invested guardians of their safety.

4. Inspiring Coexistence

Sri Lanka is one of the densest island nations on Earth where wild elephants and humans share the same soil. Wanali seeks to revive the ancient cultural bond between villagers and giants, advocating for unblocked migratory corridors and humane preventive technology.