Sri Lanka is a tropical island nation located in South Asia, known for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty. The country’s location and climate make it an ideal home for a wide variety of birds, with over 400 species recorded. These birds come in different sizes, colors, and habits, each with unique characteristics that make them stand out. In this article, we will explore the different types of birds found in Sri Lanka, their habits, and where to find them.
Types of Birds Found in Sri Lanka
1. Sri Lankan Junglefowl
The Sri Lankan Junglefowl is the national bird of Sri Lanka and a member of the pheasant family. The males are colorful, with bright red-orange plumage and a long, curved tail, while the females are more subdued with brownish feathers. They can be found in forested areas, and their distinct calls can be heard from a distance. They are known for their aggressive behavior during the mating season, where the males engage in battles to attract the females.
2. Sri Lankan Green Pigeon
The Sri Lankan Green Pigeon is a beautiful bird with a unique green color, found mainly in the lowlands and rainforests of Sri Lanka. They feed on fruits and are known for their distinct calls that can be heard from afar. They are highly social and can be seen in flocks, making them a fascinating sight to behold.
3. Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher
The Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher is a small, colorful bird found mainly in the forests of Sri Lanka. They have a bright blue upper body and a red underside, making them a delight to watch. They feed on insects and small reptiles, and their sharp eyesight helps them spot their prey from a distance.
4. Crimson-fronted Barbet
The Crimson-fronted Barbet is a small, colorful bird with a distinctive red patch on its head. They can be found in the hills and forests of Sri Lanka, and they feed on fruits and insects. They are known for their loud calls and can often be heard before they are seen.
5. Sri Lanka Blue Magpie
The Sri Lanka Blue Magpie is a stunning bird with blue and black plumage and a long, elegant tail. They can be found in the hill country of Sri Lanka and are known for their playful behavior. They feed on insects and fruits and are highly social, often seen in large flocks.
6. Sri Lanka Hanging Parrot
The Sri Lanka Hanging Parrot is a small, colorful bird found in the forests and plantations of Sri Lanka. They have a green body with a redhead and are known for their unique way of hanging upside down while feeding. They feed on fruits and nectar and are a delight to watch in action.
7. Yellow-fronted Barbet
The Yellow-fronted Barbet is a small, colorful bird found mainly in the wet zones of Sri Lanka. They have a green body with a bright yellow head, and they feed on fruits and insects. They are known for their loud, distinctive calls and can often be seen in pairs or small groups.
8. Sri Lanka Woodshrike
The Sri Lanka Woodshrike is a small, colorful bird with a distinctive black mask around its eyes. They can be found in the forests and scrublands of Sri Lanka and feed on insects and small reptiles. They are known for their sharp, whistling calls and can often be seen perched on a high branch.
Where to Spot These Birds
Sri Lanka is home to many national parks and protected areas that offer a safe haven for birds and other wildlife. The best places to spot these birds are:
1. Sinharaja Forest Reserve
Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the last remaining rainforests in Sri Lanka. It is home to a variety of bird species, including the Sri Lankan Junglefowl, Sri Lankan Green Pigeon, and Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher. The best time to visit is between November and March when the weather is dry.
2. Horton Plains National Park
Horton Plains National Park is a beautiful park located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. It is home to the Sri Lanka Blue Magpie and Yellow-fronted Barbet, among other bird species. The best time to visit is between December and April, when the weather is dry.
3. Bundala National Park
Bundala National Park is located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka and is a great place to spot water birds such as pelicans, flamingos, and storks. It is also home to the Sri Lankan Hanging Parrot and the Crimson-fronted Barbet. The best time to visit is between December and April when the park is dry.
4. Wilpattu National Park
Wilpattu National Park is the largest national park in Sri Lanka and is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds. It is a great place to spot the Sri Lanka Woodshrike and other bird species such as eagles, owls, and kingfishers. The best time to visit is between February and October when the weather is dry.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka is a bird watcher’s paradise, with a wide variety of bird species to observe and appreciate. From the colorful Sri Lankan Junglefowl to the playful Sri Lanka Blue Magpie, these birds add to the rich biodiversity of the island. The best time to spot these birds is during the dry season, and there are several national parks and reserves where bird watchers can explore and appreciate these feathered friends. Whether you’re a seasoned bird watcher or a curious traveler, Sri Lanka’s birdlife is sure to amaze and delight.
