{"id":21333,"date":"2022-06-06T12:46:36","date_gmt":"2022-06-06T11:46:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/?p=21333"},"modified":"2024-10-30T12:03:52","modified_gmt":"2024-10-30T12:03:52","slug":"birding-in-sri-lanka-north","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/birding-in-sri-lanka-north\/","title":{"rendered":"Birding in Sri Lanka"},"content":{"rendered":"

[vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content_no_spaces” equal_height=”yes” content_placement=”top” css=”.vc_custom_1730214269943{padding-top: 60% !important;background-image: url(https:\/\/www.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/Flamingos-Jaffna.jpg?id=24714) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}”][vc_column][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1\/6″][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”2\/3″][vc_empty_space height=”50px”][vc_column_text]A guest blog by ETG clients Steve and Joanna<\/strong><\/p>\n

The richness of bird life was a great surprise to us on a trip to the north of Sri Lanka<\/a> in late February and early March 2022. We are not obsessional birdwatchers and the trip was a varied one taking in not just wildlife, but also local culture, religion, history and food. However, we always try to identify what we see as this gives us a much deeper understanding of what is going on around us.<\/p>\n

Our planned bird encounters included visits to Wilpattu<\/a> and Gal Oya<\/a> National Parks. By the way, there are plenty of others as well. There were also many chance encounters by the roadside as well as around our hotels away from the cities.[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”50px”][vc_single_image image=”21345″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

Wilpattu National Park<\/h2>\n

Wilpattu National Park in the north west is forested with clearings for lakes and reservoirs. Visits are only allowed by standard stay-on-the-jeep safaris. These brought great sightings of waders and water birds with plentiful raptors overhead. Although staying on the jeep is not ideal for seeing smaller forest species, it was still well worthwhile.<\/p>\n

Wilpattu is primarily geared up for seeing leopards even though there are not many of them. We found the key to enjoyable bird watching was to convince our guides that leopards were not our main priority. Once we got that message home, and it was not easy, they took us off the usual busy \u2018leopard trails\u2019. Instead, we went northeastwards around the Mahawewa reservoir. It was here where we had a five-minute encounter with an Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher, the so-called jewel of the forest \u2013 brilliant!<\/p>\n

We stayed at \u2018The Ibis<\/a>\u2019 which is just outside Wilpattu park. The atmosphere is \u2018safari lodge\u2019 and the owner and son are avid birders. The Ibis had its own rich collection of birds living in the surrounding woodland and farms as well as on its own lake. This was the only place we saw a Lesser Florican which, in our bird guide, does not occur in Sri Lanka.[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”15px”][vc_single_image image=”21347″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

Around Jaffna<\/h2>\n

Moving northwards, our next bird hotspot was the area of islands and lagoons south of Jaffna city. Kayts and Punkudutivu Islands are easily reached by causeways from Jaffna<\/a>. Really, it is difficult to go wrong here with a huge variety of birds living on roadside lagoons, mudflats and farmland. Also, while crossing the first causeway to Kayts Island we spotted the distant pink haze of a flock of flamingos in the lagoon.<\/p>\n

Our local guide knew the drill. We U-turned to Jaffna\u2019s fish harbour and arranged an impromptu boat trip to take us out to the birds. We kept about 100m away from the flock in the shallow water.<\/p>\n

It was a great sight for a well-spent 3000 rupees, about \u00a310.[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”15px”][vc_single_image image=”21338″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

Journey down the northeast coast<\/h2>\n

The journey down the northeast coast passed many lagoons and estuaries as well as frequent army posts, a legacy of the civil war. Apart from freshwater species, the main seabirds seemed to be terns: Caspian, Great Crested, Whiskered and Little. Amongst these were solitary large guls. Possibly these were Caspian, Heuglin, or steppe guls, we were never able to sort these out.[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”15px”][vc_single_image image=”21336″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

Gal Oya National Park<\/h2>\n

Inland, Gal Oya was our second national park. We had chosen this as a contrast to Wilpattu for its position in the foothills of the central highlands of the island. We took a boat safari on the Senanayake Samudra, a large man-made reservoir.<\/p>\n

The water is dotted with small islands with some having crowded breeding colonies of Black Headed Ibis, Cormorants, and Herons. We also had a guest appearance of a Crested Hawk Eagle here. This is a bird with real \u2018attitude\u2019.<\/p>\n

The surroundings of our accommodation, Gal Oya Lodge<\/a>, also had many species. Quite by accident, we even saw a second Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher by a roadside shrine. However, the highlight at Gal Oya Lodge had to be a Sri Lankan Frogmouth sitting on its nest of moss and spider webs.<\/p>\n

This bird is extremely well camouflaged. In fact, on an earlier trip we were almost face to face with one but only saw it when it blinked.[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”15px”][vc_single_image image=”21342″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes”][vc_column_text]In the end we saw more than 160 species plus the inevitable mystery birds. Sri Lanka and Sri Lankans were warm and welcoming and we shall return there in the not too distant future.\u00a0<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Thanks to Steve and Joanna for sharing their incredible story and images of their time in Sri Lanka. They travelled with Experience Travel Group Feb\/March 2022.<\/strong><\/em>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”15px”][vc_column_text css=””]We’ve added our own take: If Sri Lanka were a music festival, the birds would be headlining \u2013 with raucous, feathered performances <\/span>that\u2019ll<\/span> have you reaching for the binoculars, not the earplugs.
\nThis little island in the Indian Ocean might be famed for its ancient ruins and palm-fringed beaches, but <\/span>it\u2019s<\/span> also a birdwatcher\u2019s wonderland. Kingfishers, eagles, and a whole suite of winged wonders make their homes here, and <\/span>you\u2019re<\/span> invited to <\/span>come and see<\/span> the show. Pack your camera (and patience), and <\/span>let\u2019s<\/span> take a closer look at Sri Lanka\u2019s best birding spots.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Best Birdwatching Spots in Sri Lanka<\/h2>\n

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  1. \n

    Sinharaja Forest Reserve: The Bird Buffet<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Welcome to the rainforest where the trees are tall, and the birds are even taller tales. Sinharaja, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is where you\u2019ll find Sri Lanka\u2019s most famous feathered residents. Keep your eyes peeled for the Sri Lanka blue magpie \u2013 it\u2019s like spotting the celebrity at the party. Meanwhile, the red-faced malkoha struts about with all the confidence of a fashionista on the runway. But don\u2019t let the junglefowl\u2019s name fool you \u2013 these birds are far from basic chickens.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”15px”][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

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    1. \n

      Bundala National Park: Flamingo Headquarters<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

      Down on the southeast coast, Bundala\u2019s wetlands are where the cool kids (aka flamingos) hang out. But it\u2019s not all pink feathers and leggy elegance. Painted storks swoop overhead while pelicans and spoonbills poke about the lagoons. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the white-bellied sea eagle giving a masterclass in gliding over the waves. Expect over 200 bird species vying for your attention \u2013 the bird equivalent of a Glastonbury line-up.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”15px”][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

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      1. \n

        Yala National Park: Where Leopards and Hornbills Share the Stage<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

        Yes, Yala is famed for its leopards, but while you’re waiting for one to make an appearance, the birds are doing their best to steal the limelight. Indian rollers flit through the air with a flash of turquoise, and Malabar pied hornbills seem to turn every tree into a stage. Raptors like the crested serpent eagle keep a watchful eye from above, ensuring no small rodent has a peaceful day.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”15px”][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

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        1. \n

          Kitulgala: Riverbank Rendezvous<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

          Kitulgala is a serene little spot famous for its scenery and water sports, but the birds here are worth a visit too. As you meander along the Kelani River, you might just catch a glimpse of the Sri Lanka green pigeon tucking into wild fruits. Keep an ear out for the crimson-fronted barbet and, if you\u2019re particularly lucky, the chestnut-backed owlet might grace you with an appearance. Kitulgala\u2019s birds are quieter about their fame, but no less deserving of admiration.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”15px”][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

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          1. \n

            Colombo Wetlands: An Urban Birdwatching Break<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

            Who said city life is for the birds? Well, in Colombo\u2019s wetlands, that\u2019s quite literally the case. While the traffic honks and tuk-tuks putter nearby, the wetlands are an unexpected oasis for birdlife. Black-crowned night herons, pintail snipes, and an array of other water birds call these urban marshes home. Forget skyscrapers \u2013 it\u2019s all about the egrets and herons here.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”15px”][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

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            1. \n

              Horton Plains: Birdwatching on Cloud Nine<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

              Up in the central highlands, where mist clings to the trees and the air feels just that bit crisper, Horton Plains offers a different birding experience. The montane forests here are perfect for spotting some of the island\u2019s rarer species, like the yellow-eared bulbul or the shy Sri Lanka whistling thrush. And then there\u2019s the Sri Lanka wood pigeon, cooing away like a very laid-back DJ setting the vibe.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”15px”][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

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              1. \n

                Udawalawe National Park: Raptors\u2019 Delight<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                If your dream safari involves a few more wings and talons, Udawalawe is your go-to. The skies are dominated by the likes of the crested hawk-eagle, keeping an eye out for prey, while the grey-headed fish eagle expertly spots dinner from afar. Large waterbirds like the Eurasian spoonbill make this park a fantastic spot for migratory bird sightings too. Bring your best zoom lens.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”15px”][vc_column_text css=””]<\/p>\n

                Time to Take Flight?<\/span><\/h2>\n

                Sri Lanka\u2019s birdlife is as colourful and diverse as its landscape. Whether you\u2019re trekking through the rainforests of Sinharaja or quietly waiting for the next bird to appear in the Colombo wetlands, you\u2019ll quickly realise this island is a birdwatcher\u2019s dream. So lace up those boots, grab your binoculars, and prepare for an unforgettable avian adventure.<\/span>[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”15px”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

                <\/h2>\n

                CURIOUS ABOUT BIRDING IN SRI LANKA?<\/h2>\n

                Head to our website for more ideas and information about bird and wildlife holidays<\/a><\/p>\n

                You can browse our luxury holiday ideas to Sri Lanka<\/a> or get in touch on 020 7924 7133<\/span>\r\n \t.<\/p>\n

                Alternatively, fill out an online enquiry form to start your journey<\/a>.<\/p>\n

                [\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/6″][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”21346″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1\/2″][vc_single_image image=”21344″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/2″][vc_single_image image=”21337″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”21341″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

                Steve takes us through the richness of birding experiences in the north of Sri Lanka, along with a focus on Wilpattua and Gal Oya National Parks<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":67,"featured_media":21340,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"no","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[17,15],"tags":[1358],"coauthors":[1316],"class_list":["post-21333","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-guest-contributors","category-sri-lanka","tag-birdlife"],"aioseo_notices":[],"views":2748,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21333","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/67"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=21333"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/21333\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/21340"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=21333"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=21333"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=21333"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/archive.experiencetravelgroup.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=21333"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}