By 2022, habitat loss, degradation and fragmentation are significantly reduced

Sri Lanka underwent large scale deforestation during the hydraulic civilization from 200 BC till 1200 AD for agriculture, during colonial rule for plantations, and post-independence for development purposes and especially through the Mahaweli Development Programme. Currently, post-war, Sri Lanka is again entering a rapid development phase, especially placing increased pressure on the North and East forests. As a consequence there is increased habitat fragmentation, pollution and spread of invasive alien species.