Sri Lanka is proud to be gifted by nature a wealth of animal life & luxuriant vegetation. Today 14% of our small island is dedicated to sanctuaries and nature reserves. Much of the fauna is of Indian origin, due to the fact that millions of years ago the 2 countries were bridged by a strip of land.
The period of separation has been sufficient for distinctive indigenous fauna to evolve and 19% are new species, totally endemic to Sri Lanka.
Of the 86 species of mammals, pride of place goes to the majestic Elephant - the second largest terrestrial animal surviving today. While Sri Lanka does not have Lions & Tigers, 4 species of Cats including the Leopard are seen regularly in the wildlife parks. Other exotic species commonly seen are the Sloth Bear and many varieties of Deer, Monkeys including the endemic Macaque, Purple Faced Leaf Monkey and Shaggy Bear Monkey. More common species are Wild boar, Jackals, Mongoose, Porcupines, Giant Squirrels, many species of Rats and Shrews and the aggressive and dangerous Wild Buffalo.
Lakes and estuaries in the national parks attract the 2 species of Crocodiles endemic to Sri Lanka. 5 species of turtles frequent our island's beaches to lay eggs.
Legend has it that the world's first wildlife sanctuary was created in Sri Lanka by a King in the 3rd century BC. It is recorded in the ancient Buddhist scriptures - "The King decreed that all human beings should follow the hallowed Buddhist precept of not harming any form of life".
Our Wildlife Tour covers the most important national parks in the island. You will leave enriched by the experience, the knowledge you gained and the beauty of what you saw. |
