Bird watching in Sri Lanka
Although a small island, Sri Lanka has a rich array of bird life that can be spotted in the variety of land and water based habitats found across the country.
Of the 433 documented bird species found in Sri Lanka, 33 are completely unique to the island. There is an abundance of resident and migratory species, the latter of which migrate to Sri Lanka during the northern winter months and can therefore be spotted between September and April. The exception are the seabirds, such as the Petrels, that migrate during the southern winter months.
Udawalawe National Park
Udawalawe National Park is famous for its herd of two hundred and fifty wild elephants which permanently reside at the park, attracted by the Udawalawe reservoir.
Udawalawe was designated a national park in 1972 with the purpose of providing a protected area for the many animal species that were displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe reservoir. Today it is particularly noted for its large herd of wild elephants that reside in the park as well as being a sanctuary for many water birds.
For those looking to experience the stunning Sri Lankan wildlife, Udawalawe is one of the best park to visit during a Sri Lankan tour and is the third most visited national park on the island.
Minneriya National Park
Visiting the Minneriya National Park in the North Central province of Sri Lanka is a highlight of many of our tour travellers who get to witness the spectacular sight of “The Gathering” of hundreds of elephants during the summer months!
Originally a wildlife sanctuary, Minneriya was designated a national park in 1997 to help protect the area of the Minneriya tank – the large reservoir in the park created by King Mahasena during the third century and therefore having historic importance and now home to many birds. It is a birdwatchers paradise with painted storks, grey herons, grey white pelicans, lesser adjutants, Sri Lanka jungle fowl, brown-capped babblers being the highlights.
The two endemic monkeys of Sri Lanka; the tufted grey langur and toque macaque, both call Minneriya home and can be sighted during safaris around the park.
