Sri Lanka, Aug. 12 -- Returning to Uda Walawe National Park after a six-month absence, veteran conservationist Srilal Miththapala observes a park in quiet crisis. While the thrill of encountering Sumedha-the park's undisputed king-remains unmatched, the rapid spread of invasiveLantana camarais crowding out native grasslands, noticeably degrading the health of female herds. Coupled with a record number of orphaned calves at the Elephant Transit Home, Miththapala warns that urgent habitat management is critical to saving Sri Lanka's prime elephant sanctuary.

It was almost six months since I had visited the Uda Walawe National Park (UWNP). Those who know me would realise that this was indeed a long absence for me, from what I would perhap...