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This is a common species found throughout the country from the highest mountains to the lowlands. This species is found in Sub-Saharan Africa and southern Asia. Six sub species have been recognized and the nominate race P. p. palantha is found in the island.

The conservation of this species is regarded as “Least Concerned” (National Red List 2012).

This is a species protected under the Fauna & Flora Protection Ordinance as amended by Act No.22 of 2009.

This species is equally common in the dry lowlands as well as in the wet zone areas. They are also found in the hills. The Common Leopard is regularly seen in forests and urban areas alike including the home garden within the city of Colombo. The host plants for this species include “Rata Uguressa” Flacourtia jangomas, “Ketmbilla” Dovyalis hebecarpa, “Uguressa/Katu Lovi” Flacourtia indica, “Makula” Hydnocarpus venenata and “Katu Kenda” Solopia pusilla. This species is very common in urban gardens including Colombo, forested areas and plantations.

This is a common species in and around the Wilpattu National Park.