Bird sanctuaries
400 varieties of birds in Sri Lanka is attributable to the tropical climate and wide range of natural habitats, from high hills to lowlands to dry plains and lush forests. Sri Lanka boasts of 26 species of birds which can be seen in the rainforests of the hill zone, Sinharaja and Kittulgala.
November to April period (especially particularly during February and March) is the best time for bird watching. Over 198 migrant bird species land here in Sri Lanka.
Some of the best locations for bird watching addicts are :
- Sinharaja forest
- Horton Plains
For family enjoyment we recommend
- Yala National Park,
- Bundala National Park
- Uda Walawe are National Park.
Bird Sanctuaries close to Colombo
Talangama
Another bird sanctuary located on the outskirts of Colombo, Talangama records sightings of over a hundred species of birds
The Bellanwila-Attidiya marsh is within close proximity of Colombo. It is rich in species of birds even though it is very close to urban life
Other Bird Sanctuaries
Udawattakele Bird Sanctuary
This is the only reserve to be situated in the suburbs of a city. The Udawattakele Sanctuary rests on the northern edge of the Kandy city just above the Temple of the Tooth. The forest is a haven for birds and some of the birds sighted here include the Layard’s Parakeet.
Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary
Situated just a short distance off the coastal road on the south coast of the island between Tangalle and Hambantota. It borders the Indian Ocean and also consists of lagoons and mangrove swamps.
Bodhinagala
Bodhinagala is a small area of secondary rainforest only about a two hour drive from the city of Colombo. Located in a tropical rainforest surrounding a monastery and rich in flora and fauna Bodhinagala is yet another great place for bird watching.
Muthurajawela Marshes
Situated near Negombo, the Muthurajawela marshes meaning “swamp of royal treasure’ lives up to its name. Home to a staggering number of species of birds, flora and fauna