Bird Watching
Sri Lanka is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 430 species of birds, including many endemic species. The island’s varied topography, from the coastal wetlands to the montane forests, provides habitats for a diverse range of birds.
The best time for bird watching in Sri Lanka is from November to April, when the weather is dry and many species are breeding. Here are some of the best places for bird watching in Sri Lanka:
- Sinharaja Forest Reserve: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a pristine rainforest and one of the most important bird habitats in Sri Lanka. It is home to 147 species of birds, including 19 endemic species such as Sri Lanka blue magpie, Sri Lanka spurfowl, and Sri Lanka junglefowl.
- Bundala National Park: This coastal wetland sanctuary is a Ramsar site and a paradise for birdwatchers. Over 200 species of birds have been recorded here, including the greater flamingo, Eurasian curlew, and the rare black-necked stork.
- Yala National Park: This popular wildlife sanctuary is best known for its leopards and elephants, but it is also a great place for bird watching. Over 200 species of birds have been recorded here, including the Sri Lanka grey hornbill, Sri Lanka wood pigeon, and the brown-capped babbler.
- Horton Plains National Park: This montane forest is home to several endemic bird species such as Sri Lanka white-eye, Sri Lanka bush warbler, and the dull-blue flycatcher. It is also a great place to see migrant birds such as the Indian blue robin and the Kashmir flycatcher.
- Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary: This coastal wetland is one of the oldest bird sanctuaries in Sri Lanka and is home to over 150 species of birds. The sanctuary is an important breeding ground for many species of waterbirds such as the purple heron, black-crowned night heron, and Indian pond heron.
In conclusion, Sri Lanka is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with a diverse range of habitats and over 430 species of birds. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced birdwatcher, Sri Lanka has something to offer for everyone.
