Needless to say, Yala, is most definitely the ultimate destination to experience a Sri Lanka Leopard Safari. Yala National Park is one of the most famous safari parks in the island right now covering an area of 378 square miles. Observing the Leopards of Yala is an experience not to be missed while you’re here in Sri Lanka. The Sri Lankan leopard has been classified as endangered and is a leopard subspecies that is native to Sri Lanka. However, unfortunately, one of the most treasured and most sought-after sights among the Yala National Park leopards, a senior leopardess by the name of Sage (YF 24) succumbed to injuries caused by a venomous snake at the National Park on the 17th of July 2021.
She was first recorded by the Cinnamon Nature Trails team back in 2012 as a 20 month old female with vibrant looks. Over the years, she wore the scars of her efforts to hold her territory with a broken canine tooth and a part of her tail lost, in a skirmish.
This legendary leopardess raised two male cubs, the popular Lance and Lucas in 2017. Given her injuries and the missing canine making it difficult for her to hunt and provide meals for her cubs, it was considered a feat to have raised two male cubs to adulthood. Although Lance passed away in early adulthood, Lucas now dominates a large area in Yala and is a star among the most dominant leopards.
Sage was one of the most elusive and majestic creatures amongst all the leopards at Yala, her stately spotted coat of fur, hanging canine, and short tail made her distinctly different and easily identifiable amongst all the Leopards of Yala. Her maternal nature and predatory instincts allowed her to bring to life and raise beautiful leopards. She was seen with a cub of around 2 to 3 months even in as recent times as February 2021. Upon her passing, she’s left behind a young six-month-old cub whose future is uncertain without its guiding light – the mother leopard.
Although we may never see Sage in the wilderness again, we’re excited to witness the feats and adventures of her offspring Lucas and the new born. Her legacy will live on through them. So do visit the Yala National Park and enjoy the story of Sage continue through her descendants.
Yala is situated 195km away from Colombo and is around a 6-hour drive from Colombo. Make your stay worthwhile and comfortable by staying with us at Cinnamon Wild Yala which is situated in close proximity to the Yala National Park. We provide the perfect combination of comfort, luxury and nature. Let Cinnamon Nature Trails curate the perfect safari experience for you and let our inhouse naturalists and wildlife experts guide you through your adventures to catch a glimpse of Sage’s offspring and keep her memory alive!
