Sri Lanka is a paradise for bird watchers, boasting a rich diversity of bird species in its various ecosystems. From coastal areas to lush forests and wetlands, the country provides a habitat for a wide range of avian residents and migratory birds. Bird watching in Sri Lanka offers a rewarding experience for enthusiasts, with the chance to observe diverse species in various natural habitats. Whether you are a serious birder or just appreciate the beauty of birds, Sri Lankas avian diversity is sure to captivate you.
- Sinharaja Forest Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sinharaja is a tropical rainforest that harbors an abundance of bird species, including endemics like the Sri Lanka blue magpie, red-faced malkoha, and green-billed coucal.
- Horton Plains National Park: Located in the central highlands, Horton Plains is known for its unique montane grassland habitat. Bird watchers can spot species such as the Sri Lanka whistling thrush, dull-blue flycatcher, and the elusive Sri Lanka bush warbler.
- Yala National Park: While famous for its wildlife, Yala is also a bird-watching haven. Look out for the Indian roller, painted stork, black-necked stork, and various raptors, including the white-bellied sea eagle.
- Wilpattu National Park: Wilpattu, the largest national park in Sri Lanka, is home to a diverse avian population. Keep an eye out for the Sri Lanka junglefowl, painted stork, white ibis, and the rare red-faced Malkoha.
- Bundala National Park: Bundala is a Ramsar wetland site with a significant bird population. It is a haven for water birds, including flamingos, painted storks, Eurasian spoonbills, and various species of ducks and shorebirds.
- Kumana National Park: Kumana, also known as Yala East, is a renowned bird sanctuary. During the migratory season, it attracts a variety of birds, including the greater flamingo, Indian pitta, and black-capped kingfisher.
- Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks: These parks, known for the Minneriya Elephant Gathering are also excellent for bird watching. Spot the Sri Lanka grey hornbill, painted stork, and various waterfowl species.
- Anawilundawa Wetland Sanctuary: Anawilundawa is a Ramsar wetland site with a diverse bird population. It is particularly famous for its water birds, including the lesser whistling duck, black-crowned night heron, and purple swamphen.
- Victoria Park, Nuwara Eliya: Victoria Park, situated in the hill station of Nuwara Eliya, is home to both resident and migratory birds. Look for the Kashmir flycatcher, Indian blue robin, and Sri Lanka white-eye.
- Bellanwila - Attidiya Sanctuary: Located near Colombo, this urban wetland sanctuary is home to various bird species, including the Sri Lanka spurfowl, yellow-fronted barbet, and oriental scoops owl.
