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Sri Lankan Safari Sri Lanka is Asia's foremost wildlife destination and probably the best outside Africa.

In fact the country has been recognized as one of the ten global bio diverse hotspots in the world.

18/09/2026

White-bellied Fish Eagle – Master of Sri Lanka’s Waters...

The White-bellied Fish Eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster), also known as the White-bellied Sea Eagle, is a magnificent bird of prey found around Sri Lanka’s coasts, lagoons, estuaries, rivers, lakes and wetlands. Adults are easily recognized by their striking white head, breast and belly, contrasting with their dark grey wings and back. With a wingspan of approximately 1.8–2 metres, this powerful raptor is an impressive sight as it soars above the water. Its diet consists mainly of fish, but it also takes water snakes, turtles, birds and other small animals. It often hunts from a high perch near water and may be seen alone or in pairs. The species is classified as Least Concern (LC) globally.

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Birds of Mannar Island...Sri Lanka is a birder's paradise. It's a tropical island in the Indian Ocean and called as "pea...
18/09/2026

Birds of Mannar Island...

Sri Lanka is a birder's paradise. It's a tropical island in the Indian Ocean and called as "pearl of the Indian Ocean"it is situated ten degrees north to equator. Sri Lanka boasts of diverse and favorable climatic conditions. There are natural habitats such as forests, scrublands, grasslands, wetlands, seas and agricultural lands.
Amongst the best places to spot birds in Sri Lanka we cannot forget the Mannar Island.
Mannar Island is one of the best spots in Sri Lanka for spotting migratory birds and for other animals also. There are giant tanks made about 1500 years ago which serves as best nesting places for both endemic and migratory birds. Here is a birdwatching region quite different from the wet forest of the Central Highlands, the hill country or the southern wetlands.

The land is low, only a few meters above sea level, the climate is exceedingly dry and the area is sparsely populated. There is number of mud flats and saline lakes between the mainland and Mannar Island that attracts lots of wintering birds.

The Venkalai sanctuary is one of the best places to spot wading water birds.In Mannar you will see birds such as Greater Flamingos, Black Tail Godwits, Gargneys, Pintail Ducks, Gulls, Plovers, Terns all in flocks of several hundreds. So many Raptors: White Bellied Sea Eagles, Brahamin Kites, Black Kites, Common Kestrels. In addition, you can see Crab Plovers and Pied Avocets.

Spending your time at Mannar Island will let you enjoy and observe aquatic birds which inhabits the turquoise water area in the surrounding.

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Brahminy Kite – A Graceful Hunter of Sri Lanka’s Skies...The Brahminy Kite (Haliastur indus) is one of Sri Lanka’s most ...
18/09/2026

Brahminy Kite – A Graceful Hunter of Sri Lanka’s Skies...

The Brahminy Kite (Haliastur indus) is one of Sri Lanka’s most distinctive birds of prey, instantly recognizable by its rich chestnut-brown body, contrasting white head and breast, and dark wing tips. Adults measure around 45–51 cm in length and have an impressive wingspan of approximately 109–124 cm, with a typical weight ranging from 320–670 g.

This adaptable raptor is closely associated with water and can be found around coasts, lagoons, estuaries, rivers, reservoirs, wetlands and fishing areas. In Sri Lanka, it is a common resident and can even be seen soaring above urban areas such as Colombo. Its diet includes fish, crabs, reptiles, frogs, insects and carrion, making it an important opportunistic predator and scavenger within wetland ecosystems.

One of its most fascinating features is its rounded tail, which helps distinguish it from many other kites. Juveniles look quite different, being predominantly brown until they gradually develop the striking adult plumage. The species is currently classified as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List.

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For inquiries and bookings, dial +94 77 3476288 or write to us at [email protected]

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Sri Lankan Leopard – The Island’s Apex Predator...The Sri Lankan Leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya) is an endemic subspeci...
17/09/2026

Sri Lankan Leopard – The Island’s Apex Predator...

The Sri Lankan Leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya) is an endemic subspecies found only on the island of Sri Lanka and is one of the country’s most iconic wild animals. It is currently classified as Vulnerable (VU) on the IUCN Red List. The Sri Lankan leopard is an apex predator, meaning it sits at the top of the island’s natural food chain and plays an important role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.

Adult males can weigh around 55–70 kg, while females are generally smaller, at around 30–40 kg. Their body length is approximately 1–1.4 metres, excluding the tail, although individual size varies. In the wild, leopards generally live for around 12–17 years, while individuals in captivity can live considerably longer.
Sri Lankan leopards are remarkably adaptable and have been recorded across a wide variety of habitats, including dry and arid forests, rainforests, montane forests, grasslands, scrublands, tea estates and even some human-modified landscapes. Important populations occur in protected areas such as Yala and Wilpattu National Parks.

Unlike many mainland leopard populations, Sri Lankan leopards evolved on an island without another large competing big-cat species. This helped establish them as the island’s top terrestrial predator. They are generally solitary, territorial animals and have a varied diet that can include deer, wild boar, monkeys and other prey.

Their beautiful golden-tawny coats and distinctive rosettes make every individual recognisable. Interestingly, research from Sri Lanka has also shown that a leopard’s spots and rosettes can change over time, challenging the earlier assumption that these markings remain completely unchanged.

Protecting forests, maintaining wildlife corridors and reducing human-caused mortality are essential for ensuring that this magnificent symbol of Sri Lanka continues to thrive in the wild.

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Chestnut-headed Bee-eater...The Chestnut-headed Bee-eater (Merops leschenaulti), also known as the Bay-headed Bee-eater,...
17/09/2026

Chestnut-headed Bee-eater...

The Chestnut-headed Bee-eater (Merops leschenaulti), also known as the Bay-headed Bee-eater, is one of Sri Lanka’s colourful and fascinating insect-eating birds. It belongs to the bee-eater family Meropidae and is classified as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List.

Measuring around 18–20 cm in length and weighing approximately 26–33 grams, this slender bird is easily recognised by its rich chestnut-coloured head, green body, blue rump, yellow throat and distinctive black eye stripe. Unlike many other bee-eaters, it does not have the elongated central tail feathers commonly seen in the group.

As its name suggests, the Chestnut-headed Bee-eater feeds mainly on flying insects, including bees, wasps, butterflies, moths, dragonflies, grasshoppers and termites. It is an agile aerial hunter, often catching insects in flight before returning to a perch to consume its prey.

In Sri Lanka, this beautiful bee-eater can be found in suitable woodland and other natural habitats, adding a splash of colour to the island's rich birdlife. Although a dependable species-specific lifespan is not well documented, its specialised insect-hunting behaviour makes it an important part of the ecosystem.

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Six Fascinating Dolphins of Sri Lanka...Sri Lanka’s surrounding seas are home to an impressive variety of dolphins, each...
11/09/2026

Six Fascinating Dolphins of Sri Lanka...

Sri Lanka’s surrounding seas are home to an impressive variety of dolphins, each with its own fascinating characteristics.

The Spinner Dolphin (Stenella longirostris), one of the most spectacular species seen around Sri Lanka, is famous for its incredible spinning leaps and feeds mainly on small schooling fish, squid and crustaceans. Its global IUCN status is Least Concern.

The Bottlenose Dolphin includes the Common Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), globally listed as Least Concern,

and the Indo-Pacific Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops aduncus), which is currently Data Deficient globally. They feed on fish, squid and crustaceans and are known for their intelligence and sophisticated hunting techniques.

The Risso’s Dolphin (Grampus griseus), classified as Least Concern, is easily recognized by the numerous pale scars that develop across its body as it matures. It is particularly fond of squid and other cephalopods.

The Striped Dolphin (Stenella coeruleoalba), also Least Concern, has distinctive blue-grey and white stripes and feeds mainly on fish, squid and other small marine prey.

The Pantropical Spotted Dolphin (Stenella attenuata), listed as Least Concern, is recognized by the spots that become more prominent as the animal ages. Its diet consists mainly of small schooling fish, with squid and crustaceans also forming part of its diet.

Finally, the Fraser’s Dolphin (Lagenodelphis hosei), another Least Concern species, is a relatively small, deep-water dolphin with a robust body and striking dark-and-light colour patterns. It is one of the less frequently encountered dolphin species in Sri Lankan waters.

Together, these dolphins highlight the incredible marine biodiversity surrounding Sri Lanka and remind us why protecting our oceans from pollution, fishing-related threats and habitat disturbance is so important.

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For inquiries and bookings, dial +94 77 3476288 or write to us at [email protected]

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On World Dolphin Day, let’s celebrate these incredible marine ambassadors and do our part to keep their home healthy and...
11/09/2026

On World Dolphin Day, let’s celebrate these incredible marine ambassadors and do our part to keep their home healthy and safe...

On World Dolphin Day, let’s celebrate these intelligent, social and fascinating creatures that bring life to our oceans. Dolphins play an important role in marine ecosystems, and their presence reminds us of the incredible diversity found beneath the waves. From Sri Lanka’s coastal waters to oceans around the world, protecting dolphins means protecting the clean seas and healthy marine habitats they depend on. Let’s work together to reduce plastic pollution, prevent harmful fishing practices and keep our oceans safe for generations to come. Wishing everyone a meaningful World Dolphin Day — may we continue to admire these beautiful marine ambassadors while giving them the protection they deserve.

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For inquiries and bookings, dial +94 77 3476288 or write to us at [email protected]

Book Your Sri Lankan wildlife tour now:
https://www.srilankansafari.com/reservations.php

Sri Lanka’s Fascinating World of Chameleons & Agamid Lizards...Sri Lanka is home to an extraordinary diversity of reptil...
10/09/2026

Sri Lanka’s Fascinating World of Chameleons & Agamid Lizards...

Sri Lanka is home to an extraordinary diversity of reptiles, including several remarkable lizards that are often mistaken for chameleons. The Rhino-horned Lizard (Ceratophora stoddartii) is an endemic species of Sri Lanka’s montane forests, famous for the distinctive horn-like projection on its snout, particularly prominent in males. The Sri Lankan Pygmy Lizard (Cophotis ceylanica) is a small, mountain-dwelling agamid adapted to the cool, moist environments of the central highlands.

The beautiful Green Forest Lizard (Calotes calotes) is commonly encountered in forested areas and gardens, where it helps regulate insect populations. Karu’s Horned Lizard (Ceratophora karu) is one of Sri Lanka’s rarest endemic agamids and is restricted to specialised rainforest habitats, making the protection of its forest home especially important.

The Sri Lankan Chameleon (Chamaeleo zeylanicus), the island’s true chameleon, is a fascinating dry-zone reptile with independently moving eyes, a highly flexible tail and a remarkable projectile tongue used to capture insects. It is classified as Endangered, highlighting the importance of protecting its remaining habitats. The Hump-nosed Lizard (Lyriocephalus scutatus), although not a true chameleon, is another endemic agamid with a distinctive raised head structure and remarkable appearance.

Together, these lizards play valuable roles in Sri Lanka’s ecosystems by feeding on insects and other small prey, participating in food webs, and reflecting the health of the forests and habitats where they live. Protecting forests, reducing habitat loss, and encouraging responsible wildlife observation are essential to ensuring these unique reptiles continue to thrive for future generations.

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For inquiries and bookings, dial +94 77 3476288 or write to us at [email protected]

Book Your Sri Lankan wildlife tour now:
https://www.srilankansafari.com/reservations.php

Orange-billed Babbler – The Chattering Treasure of Sri Lanka...The Orange-billed Babbler, scientifically known as Argya ...
03/09/2026

Orange-billed Babbler – The Chattering Treasure of Sri Lanka...

The Orange-billed Babbler, scientifically known as Argya rufescens (formerly Turdoides rufescens), is a charming endemic bird of Sri Lanka, found mainly in the island’s lush wet-zone rainforests. Measuring around 25 cm in length and weighing approximately 64–78 grams, this warm rufous-brown babbler is instantly recognizable by its striking orange bill and orange-yellow legs. Its reported longevity can reach around 13 years, although a reliable species-specific wingspan measurement is not readily established.
The species is currently classified as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List, but protecting its rainforest habitat remains essential.

Unlike many solitary forest birds, Orange-billed Babblers are highly social and are usually encountered in noisy flocks of seven to ten or more individuals. Their constant chattering, squeaking and chirping can often reveal their presence before the birds themselves are spotted! They are also an important nucleus species of mixed-species feeding flocks, moving through the forest while searching for insects, berries and other food.

One of the best places to encounter this beautiful endemic is Sinharaja, along with other wet-zone forests such as Kitulgala. For birdwatchers, hearing that lively chorus echoing through the rainforest is often just as exciting as seeing the birds themselves!

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For inquiries and bookings, dial +94 77 3476288 or write to us at [email protected]

Book Your Sri Lankan wildlife tour now:
https://www.srilankansafari.com/afternoon-safari-game

Birdwatching in Colombo’s Urban Wetlands...Just beyond the busy streets of Colombo lies a wonderful network of wetlands ...
31/08/2026

Birdwatching in Colombo’s Urban Wetlands...

Just beyond the busy streets of Colombo lies a wonderful network of wetlands where nature continues to thrive. Explore Thalangama Wetland, Diyasaru Park, Bellanwila Wetland, and Kimbulawala Wetland and discover an amazing variety of resident and migratory birds in surprisingly close proximity to the city. Among the species you may encounter are the Pheasant-tailed Jacana, Purple Heron, Common Kingfisher, White-breasted Waterhen, Purple Swamphen, Little Egret, Pond Heron, and Cattle Egret, along with many other fascinating wetland and woodland birds. Thalangama is recognized for its high biodiversity, while Bellanwila-Attidiya is an important stopover for migratory birds and a significant roosting area for herons and egrets.

These wetlands are much more than beautiful places for birdwatching. They provide feeding, nesting, shelter, and resting grounds for birds, including species that travel thousands of kilometres during migration. Wetlands also play an important role in flood management and support many other forms of biodiversity.

Protecting these precious green spaces is therefore essential—not only for the birds we enjoy today, but for future generations to experience the same natural wonders. Every preserved wetland becomes a safe haven where wildlife can flourish alongside a growing city.

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For inquiries and bookings, dial +94 77 3476288 or write to us at [email protected]

Book Your Sri Lankan wildlife tour now:
https://www.srilankansafari.com/afternoon-safari-game

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2B, 1ST Cross Street, Pagoda Road, Nugegoda
Colombo

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