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SRI LANKA BLUE WHALES, LEOPARDS &
ELEPHANTS
Trip Report
20 March to 3 April 2015
By Tour leader Chas Anderson
BLUE WHALES, LEOPARDS AND ELEPHANTS
Sri Lanka, 20 March to 3 April 2015
Summary
A wonderful wildlife holiday in Sri Lanka, starting with 2½ days in Wilpattu National Park.
Here we enjoyed two excellent encounters with Leopards, as well as a host of other mammal
and bird sightings. One night at Habarana gave us the chance to visit a nearby forest park for
Elephants. Then on to Trincomalee where we had no less than 11 encounters with Blue
Whales, as well as Bryde’s Whales and Spinner Dolphins. For those that stayed on for the 3-
day whale watching extension there were additional, extraordinary sightings of Sperm
Whales, Pilot Whales, Bottlenose Dolphins and Risso’s Dolphins. As well as the wildlife, we
enjoyed a number of historical and cultural sites, including the ancient capital city of
Anuradhapura, the spectacular rock palace at Sigirya, and the venerable Koneswaram
Temple.
Day 1. Friday 20 March 2015
Everyone had flown in and converged on the Tamarind Tree Hotel, near the International
Airport, at different times. We all met for the first time for drinks, just before the buffet
dinner.
Day 2. Saturday 21 March 2015
Our first full day started with a pre-breakfast bird walk in the hotel grounds, led by our Sri
Lankan naturalist Sampath. Among the many species spotted were Purple-rumped Sunbird,
Small Minivet, Asian Paradise Flycatcher and Shikra.
We departed soon after 10am, heading north up the coast. The first stop along the way was at
Chilaw (for drinks at the Rest House, where there were House Sparrows nesting in the
dining rooms, and a host of Brahminy Kites over the fish market). Next stop
Anaiwilunduwa, a wetland reserve, with a splendid array of birds including Cotton Pygmy-
goose, Purple Heron, Pheasant-tailed Jacana, and a trio of Kingfishers: White-throated,
Common and Pied. Our final stops enroute were along the shores of the giant tank (man-
made lake) known as Tabawa Wewa. Here too we enjoyed a nice diversity of waterbirds,
including Pin-tailed Snipe, Wood Sandpiper, Purple Swamphen and Whiskered Terns, as
well as a magnificent White-bellied Sea-eagle.
We were checked into our hotel near Anuradhapura just after 5pm, with time for a quick walk
around the grounds before dark for those that wanted. There were plenty more birds, plus
butterflies. Then it was time for drinks and dinner, and an early-ish night ahead of our full day
tomorrow.
Day 3. Sunday 22 March 2015
Our first, full day in Wilpattu National Park, and what a fabulous day it was! We had a fairly
leisurely start, enjoying breakfast at the hotel. Then it was down the road to Wilpattu, and into
the two jeeps which were waiting for us. The wildlife sightings started as soon as we entered
the National Park (with Grey Mongoose and Spotted Deer), and continued thick and fast
throughout the day.
Among the larger animals spotted were Land Monitors (one digging out buried eggs), a
Mugger Crocodile, a mixed troop of Toque Macaques and Grey Langurs, a Golden
Jackal, and plenty more Spotted Deer. The birdlife was stupendous, with Sri Lankan
Junglefowl, Sri Lankan Green Pigeon, Changeable Hawk-eagle and Crested Serpent
Eagle, Sharma, White-browed Bulbul, Loten’s Sunbird, and three Bee-eater species:
Little Green, Chestnut-headed and Blue-tailed. Wilpattu National Park is named for the
natural lakes or vilu which dot the landscape and are a magnet for birds: Black-winged Stilt,
Black-tailed Godwit, Greenshank, Marsh Sandpiper, Curlew Sandpiper, Greater Thick-
knee, and more. Also in the open and waterside areas were dragonflies, including swarms of
migratory Globe Skimmers. While along many of the wooded glades there were clouds of
thousands of White butterflies, of several species. In amongst the Whites were numerous
other species, in smaller numbers, including Crimson Rose and Common Tiger.
All this was before lunch. There are only a couple of places in the National Park where people
are allowed out of their vehicles. It was time now to head to the nearest one. But as we
approached, there was something on the jeep track ahead … a Leopard!
It was a young male, completely relaxed, stretched out full length in front of us. He stretched,
yawned, sat up, and lay down again. We watched entranced for a full twenty minutes, while
he dozed and fidgeted. Then he stood up and moved even closer, before lying down again.
Five minutes later he stood up again, and walked straight towards us, before turning off into
the undergrowth just feet away. Wow!
Needless to say, we were abuzz with excitement when we finally pulled in for our lunch stop
next to Kumbuk Wewa. There was a big bull Elephant feeding on lotuses out in the water.
And nearby there were Toque Macaques in the trees, and Ruddy Mongoose and Sri
Lankan Junglefowl in the undergrowth.
In Wilpattu
After such an exciting start, we thought the
afternoon might be a bit of an anti-climax.
But no, there were plenty more sightings:
Wild Boar, Barking Deer and Sambar;
Star Tortoise; Imperial Green Pigeons,
Malabar Pied Hornbills, a small flock of
Asian Paradise Flycatchers (including
two splendid white males) and the exquisite
blue Black-naped Monarch.
Day 4. Monday 23 March 2015
An early start today. We took packed breakfasts with us, and were at the Wilpattu gates by
0630. While we waited for our entry permits, a quick scan of the nearby trees produces
Crimson-fronted, Coppersmith and Brown-headed Barbets, as well as Sri Lankan and
Orange-breasted Green Pigeons.
Just inside the park, along the entrance track, there were Ruddy Mongoose and Spotted
Deer. And at the first vilu, a nice selection of birds included a Darter drying its wings, a
Greater Coucal and a White-breasted Kingfisher in full sunlight.
Further into the park the sightings continued to mount up: a Sambar mother and calf, Palm
Squirrel, Wild Buffalo, a glimpse of a Golden Jackal, three Crocodiles; Sharma, Greater
Flameback Woodpecker, Sri Lankan Junglefowl, Sri Lankan Grey Hornbill; thousands
of White butterflies, and hundreds of Globe Skimmer Dragonflies.
And then it got even better: as we drove along the wooded track the jeep driver spotted a
Leopard, just off to one side. It was resting quietly in the shade, its head leaning on an old
termite mound. We gazed at each other until the Leopard decided to move on, and sauntered
off into the bush.
It was still just
breakfast time, so we
made our way to
Kumbok Wewa for a
spell by the lake. The
Toque Macaques here (right) have
become used to
people coming with
picnics, and one
caused quite a stir by
rushing down from its
tree to steal some
cake. Toque Macaque
During the late morning there were plenty more encounters: Barking Deer, Wild Boar;
Land Monitors; and a host of waders at one of the vilus. Among the latter was an unusual
stilt. Standing next to a pair of ‘normal’ Black-winged Stilts, was a rather odd individual
with a black mask, neck and collar. This type has been recorded a few times before in Sri
Lanka, but it is not known if it represents a local variant or migrant Australian Stilt.
We left Wilpattu at 12:20, and were soon back at our hotel for lunch. Then in the mid-
afternoon there was a trip into Anuradhapura, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka, dating back
some 2000 years. The visit took in the giant Jetavana and Ruvanvalisaya Dagobas, as well as
the sacred Bo Tree, a direct descendant of the tree (Ficus religiosa) under which the Buddha
received enlightenment. Among the birds seen were an impressive flock of some 200 Cattle
Egrets, and a nesting pair of White-bellied Sea-eagles. There was also a nice Keel-back
Snake spotted on return to the hotel.
Day 5. Tuesday 24 March 2015
A final full day at Wilpattu, which produced a host of wonderful sightings. Among the
mammals were Grey Langurs and Toque Macaques, Spotted Deer, Sambar, Barking
Deer, Wild Boar, Grey Mongoose and Ruddy Mongoose. There was also a bull Elephant
feeding on lotuses in the vilu where we stopped for lunch. Among the birds of note, in order
of appearance, were Sri Lankan Woodshrike, Blue-faced Malkoha, Grey-headed Fish
Eagle, Black-headed Cuckoo-shrike, Asian Brown Flycatcher, Chestnut-headed Bee-
eater, Lesser Adjutant and a flock of Malabar Pied Hornbills. There was a White-browed
Bulbul nest, with one bird incubating, just next to the track. There were Orchids up in the
trees, and flowering Cycads, giving off their characteristic sticky-sweet smell. In the mid-
afternoon we stopped in a shady spot, turned off the jeep engines and just waited. Spotted
Deer were browsing nearby, while Red-wattled Lapwings and Yellow-browed Bulbuls
noisily went about their business And soon afterwards a Soft-shelled Terrapin appeared,
only to be investigated by an inquisitive Grey Mongoose. As we left the park at sunset, a
small herd of Elephants was crossing the lakeside nearby. A dramatic end to a packed day.
Wild Boar
Day 6. Wednesday 25 March 2015
After several full days it was nice to have the option of a lie-in this morning. Although those
who were up early for some birding by the lake at the end of the hotel grounds were rewarded
by sightings including Common Iora and two Munia species (both Scaly-breasted and
Black-headed).
At ten we were off (but not before a parting encounter with a 4-foot Rat Snake), through
Anuradhapura town and then south. Along the way we stopped at two large water tanks to
enjoy the birds, plants and dragonflies. Among the birds were numerous Purple Swamphens,
Pheasant-tailed Jacanas and Whiskered Terns. While among the dragonflies, highlights
were the stunning Oriental Scarlets and delicate Golden Sprites.
With a clear road it was only just past noon when we arrived in Habarana, and we were soon
checked in to our hotel, the Cinnamon Lodge. The rooms were wonderful, and the waiting
buffet lunch superb. Then there was just time before our afternoon excursion for a stroll
through the grounds to the butterfly garden. On the way were Toque Macaques and Grey
Langurs, and a remarkable diversity of nesting birds, including Asian Paradise Flycatcher,
Orange-breasted Green Pigeon, White-browed Fantail, Sri Lankan Woodshrike and
Jerdon’s Leafbird. The butterfly garden itself was shimmering with butterflies. The larger
species stole the show, with numerous Glassy Tigers as well as Chocolate Soldiers,
Crimson Roses and Blue Glassy Tigers.
At three we gathered at the front of the hotel where our two jeeps were waiting, and headed
straight off to the nearby Forestry Department reserve, known as the Eco-Park. At this time
of year, when there is still plenty of water around following the annual monsoon rains during
December-February, Elephants are commonly found in this reserve. And we were not
disappointed. It was not long before we found three Elephants, slowly munching their way
across the grassland. As other jeeps came and went, we stayed put, and enjoyed the
Elephants’ slow progress and gentle interactions. And all the while there were birds coming
and going, with Orange-breasted Green Pigeons nesting in a nearby bush, and Black-
headed Munias feeding on the grass seed-heads.
Eventually we moved on and found a large group of Elephants. Again we stopped and
watched. They were taking turns to drink from a small stream, splashing water over
themselves and others as they did so. In the middle-distance an enormous bull Elephant
lumbered by, while in the far distant other Elephants were trumpeting. It was an Arcadian
scene, but finally, with the sun about to set, it was time to move on, back to the main road,
and our hotel.
Day 7. Thursday 26 March 2015
After an early visit to the sumptuous breakfast buffet, we were off on our coach to Sigiriya.
This astonishing rock fortress, constructed in the 5th century, is definitely one of the cultural
highlights of any visit to Sri Lanka. We had started early to avoid the heat of the day;
nevertheless it was a hot climb up, but well worth the effort. At the very start, while still on
the flat, we had a nice view of a pair of Tickell’s Blue Flycatchers. As we started the climb
some booming in the trees off the path drew our attention to a small troop of Purple-faced
Leaf Monkeys, a rare sighting here. Then as we climbed higher we could see the hundreds of
House Swifts, rushing in to their nests under minor overhangs. A vertical climb up the spiral
stairs brought us to the fresco gallery, with its remarkably preserved murals of remarkably
voluptuous celestial maidens. Then along the mirror wall, with its ancient and modern graffiti.
That brought us out onto the Lion Platform, with its massive Lion’s paws, between which the
climb continued up a cast iron stairway bolted onto the vertical rock wall. Finally, hot and
panting, we emerged onto the top. The remains of the palace, including the royal baths were
clear to see, as was the labour that must have been involved in there contruction. The views
were wonderful, and if anything were improved by a Shaheen Falcon (a dark regional
version of the Peregrine) which was zipping about, no doubt expecting to snag a House Swift
for its breakfast. Soon enough it was time to head back down, a somewhat easier affair than
climbing up!
Indian Pitta
Back at the hotel, some chose to relax, while
others headed straight out to the butterfly
garden. We were determined to find the
Indian Pitta which was in residence. And
after some persistence, plus assistance from
one of the gardeners, we were lucky. There it
is was, skulking in deep shadow amongst the
undergrowth, but with just enough open
space on one side to allow some excellent
viewing. There was also time to revisit the
butterflies and take a few more photos before
lunch.
We left the hotel at Habarana just after 2pm, heading NE towards Trincomalee. The road has
been improved out of all recognition in recent years, and the journey went quickly. Along the
way we had a view of a Black Eagle soaring across the road, and also the extraordinary
Kantale Tank (reservoir) constructed nearly 2000 years ago. We arrived at the Chaaya Blu
Hotel at 4.15, with plenty of time to enjoy the pool and grounds (which housed a breeding
pair of Hoopoes) before sunset.
Day 8. Friday 27 March 2015
After a big storm in the night, the air had cleared somewhat when we first awoke. But there
was still some rain on the way while we were having breakfast, so we decided to postpone our
departure until 10. By then the conditions were looking good, so we set off, launching from
the beach and heading straight out to sea (after a brief stop near the adjacent Hindu temple,
for the boatmen to offer their prayers).
We headed directly out into the area of the canyon, where whales had been sighted in
previous days. And sure enough, we soon spotted two enormous blows in the distance. We
headed over to the spot, and after just 11 minutes an enormous Blue Whale surfaced nearby,
showing its characteristic great vertical blow, mottled grey colouration, and tiny dorsal fin.
This animal seemed a bit skittish, and moved off. We followed and did get to see it surface a
couple more times, but it was clearly not interested in us. So we pressed on, to the south.
The big Blue
Soon enough we spotted a second Blue Whale, and again approached for a better look. We
did indeed get some excellent views, but after some time, with a rain storm approaching, the
boatman wisely decided to head back to shore.
In addition to the two Blue Whales we had also seen some interesting seabirds. This included
good numbers of Bridled Terns, mostly heading south, as well as a smattering of White-
winged, Common and Little Terns. In addition there were singles of Brown Noddy, Gull-
billed Tern and Streaked Shearwater. But the greatest seabird spectacle was on the way
back in, when we came across a feeding frenzy of Little Tunas (also known as Kawakawa)
which had attracted perhaps 200 feeding terns.
Back on dry land, later in the afternoon, we headed into Trinco town and the famous
Koneswaram Hindu temple. This ancient holy site is mentioned in the Ramayana, although
the original temple was destroyed by the Portuguese in 1624. The modern temple had just
been repainted and was resplendent in its new livery. Prayers were being held during our visit,
and the area was busy with visiting worshippers including a large party of smartly uniformed
school children. Wildlife sightings included a White-bellied Sea Eagle soaring overhead, and
the feral herd of Spotted Deer. The drive back took us along the shore of Trinco harbour, one
of the largest natural harbours in the world.
Day 9. Saturday 28 March 2015
The sea was calmer this morning when we set off after early breakfast. Or rather, as one of
our two boats set off. The other’s engine failed to start, but after some initial tinkering a
replacement boat was quickly found, and we both headed out to sea together.
First up, an enormous school of Spinner Dolphins, which readily bowrode and spun in front
of us. Then on out into the deeper water of the Trinco Canyon. It was not long before we had
our first Blue Whale sighting – an enormous blow ahead. This was the first of perhaps seven
Blue Whales that we watched over the course of the next three hours. They were all in a
relatively small area on the southern side of the Canyon, repeating diving, presumably to feed.
Some of the whales seemed a bit skittish. But other whales appeared quite relaxed, giving
excellent views as they repeatedly surfaced to breathe before fluking and disappearing into
the deep.
In addition to the Blue Whales, the seabirds today were wonderful. On the way out we passed
an enormous flock of perhaps 300 Little Terns, feeding over a school of frenzied Little
Tunas. Not long afterwards we flushed a sitting Bulwer’s Petrel, and followed it long
enough to get some photos and good enough views to confirm identification. Then there was
flock of about 40 Common Terns bobbing on the surface, numerous Bridled Terns and
White-winged Black Terns flying south, a single Lesser Crested Tern, and a couple of
unidentified Shearwaters.
Back on land in the late afternoon we visited the peaceful and moving Commonwealth War
Cemetery, before taking a stroll down a nearby lane for some birding. One highlight was the
15 or so Blue-tailed Bee-eaters sitting on the telegraph lines (perhaps getting ready to
migrate north). Another was a fine sighting of a small group of Ashy-crowned Sparrow-
larks.
Day 10. Sunday 29 March 2015
In the morning we set off again from the beach full of anticipation for the day ahead. And we
were not disappointed. Today was a fantastic day! The sighting of a single blow led us to a
Blue Whale. It appeared to be heading south, but then it became clear that there were at least
three Blue Whales in the area. We were getting the various animals confused, but
nevertheless still enjoyed some good sightings. However, there were other boats around, and
we eventually decided to move on.
We were travelling further offshore, and had just spotted a distant Blue Whale blow, when
two Bryde’s Whales surfaced just in front of us. It was a mother with calf alongside. We
were able to watch them through two more surfacings, before they disappeared. While
waiting for them to reappear, we noticed some distant fishing boats with a large flock of
seabirds in attendance.
As we approached we could see there were four pole-and-line vessels, and three smaller
launches, all fishing for tuna. There were dozens of Common Terns, Bridled Terns and
Little Terns swooping down to take the livebait being thrown in by the fishermen. And there
were Spinner Dolphins too – a large school surfaced repeatedly, as they followed the tunas.
Eventually it was time to turn for home. On the way in we passed another Blue Whale and a
second school of Spinner Dolphins. Back at the Chaaya Blu there was time for a late lunch,
and to relax.
Day 11. Monday 30 March 2015
What a day! We had a leisurely breakfast, giving us time to say goodbye to Jenny and Ros,
who left this morning. And our later departure did us no harm at all. There was no wind at all
as we set off from the beach, the sea oily calm and just a slight swell rolling in. Not long after
setting off, while still in the shadow of Swami Rock, we spotted a single blow. Then some
flukes. Then more blows. It was a small group of perhaps seven Sperm Whales. We watched
as they milled around and fluked. Then settled down to wait for their return. 25 minutes later
we spotted blows to the north: they were up. Again we watched as they breathed at the
surface before fluking. Again we waited, and again we spotted blows to the north. But these
Sperm Whales were up much sooner than expected, and there were a lot more than seven.
Over the next hour or so it became apparent that there was a whole cavalcade of at least 50
Sperm Whales, all heading slowly northwards. We stayed with them for four hours,
travelling ten nautical miles north, moving from individual to small group, to different
individual. During this time everyone who wanted to snorkel with the whales had
opportunities to do so.
We returned to the beach after 3pm, and enjoyed the rest of the afternoon relaxing at the hotel
or taking photographs in the grounds and along the beach.
Sperm Whale off Swami Rock
Day 12. Tuesday 31 March 2015
If yesterday was a Sperm Whale day, today was all about Pilot Whales. The sea was again
calm as we set off early from the beach, carrying packed breakfasts with us. Heading slightly
north of east, we could soon see some action ahead. It turned out to be a massive mixed
school of Pilot Whales, Bottlenose Dolphins and Risso’s Dolphins, all heading slowly
northwards. They were spread out over a huge area of ocean, so it was difficult to estimate
numbers. But there may have been up to 100 Pilots, 150-200 Bottlenose and perhaps 20
Risso’s. The Bottlenose Dolphins were in front, and were keen to bowride. The Risso’s were
also very active, with much tail-thrashing. The more sedate Pilots were bringing up the rear.
Many of the Pilots were in a long line abreast, which made it relatively easy for us to get
ahead of them, letting those who wanted to slip into the water and watch them swim past. One
distinctive Pilot Whale was coloured an unusual pale brown. From the fin shape she looked
like a female, who someone promptly christened Blondie.
Pilot Whales
After 2 ½ hours with this giant school we left, and headed south in search of other species. As
it happened we did not see any more cetaceans, but we did find some driftwood with four
large Oceanic Filefish underneath. There were also seabirds about, with Bridled Terns,
Common Terns, Little Terns as well as good numbers of White-winged Terns heading
south.
Eventually we turned in and made for Swami Rock. Just out from the rock a small flotilla of
local fishing boats were flocking around a large school of scads. We headed past them to the
rocks for a snorkel in the shallows. There was plenty to see with Moray Eels, Javan
Rabbitfish, Indian Vagabond Butterfly among the more notable fishes, as well as an
impressive Crown of Thorns Starfish. And all the while a pair of White-bellied Sea-eagles
were flying and calling overhead.
Back on land, in the late afternoon, we set off by coach to the nearby village of Andamkulam,
for a bird walk along the lakeside. Almost immediately we spotted a Grey Mongoose mother
and kit. They appeared rather excited, perhaps by the presence of a Rat Snake in an adjacent
bush. Along the track there were plenty of birds; species not seen before included Black-
crowned Night Heron, Plaintive Cuckoo and Grey-breasted Prinia. We also had
particularly good views of Coppersmith Barbet and Greater Coucal. Further away, across
the lake, there were many Malabar Pied Hormbills gathering in roosting trees and Toque
Macaques clambering over distant rocks. And on the lake itself, there were hundreds of Pond
Skaters and Water-boatmen. As the sun sank, numerous small noisy flocks of birds
appeared, flying in to roost, including Rose-ringed Parakeets, Rosy Starlings and Common
Mynas.
Bottlenose Dolphins
Day 13. Wednesday 1 April 2015
The breeze had shifted to the SE during the night, and the air was sparklingly clear today. The
sea was calm as we set off, and it was not long before we saw half-a-dozen small fishing
launches ahead. They were trolling for tuna, so there was a chance of dolphins nearby. Sure
enough, as we approached, a large school of Spinner Dolphins surfaced. We spent quite a bit
of time here, photographing the boats and the spinner dolphins, but eventually decided to
move further offshore in search of whales. And search we did. We travelled nearly 20 miles
offshore. We saw plenty of Flyingfish and seabirds, but no whales. Nor did two other boats
which had been searching to the south of us. The weather was good, the sea a gorgeous blue,
so it was pleasant enough being out at sea, but eventually we decided to call it a day and head
in. However, we did make a small detour via Eel Rocks, where several terns were resting,
including four Great Crested Terns – our first for this trip.
Back on land there was plenty of time in the afternoon for some birding in the hotel grounds,
watching the fishermen hauling in their giant beach seine net, or relaxing on the beach.
Day 14. Thursday 2 April 2015
Our final morning at the Chaaya Blu. After a leisurely breakfast we departed just before
10am. As we started off, still in the outskirts of Trincomalee, there were Toque Macaques
and Grey Langurs along the roadside. And in the wild country after Kantale there were wild
Elephants browsing just metres from the road. Here we also spotted Ceylon Swallows and a
Black Eagle.
We had a short stop at Habarana, soon after which we had a glimpse of Sigiriya rock, before
stopping at Dambulla for lunch. We had been making very good progress so far, but now
things slowed somewhat. There were road works ahead, for widening and resurfacing, so
future journeys should be much improved. But for now long delays were reported, so we
decided to take the alternative route, via Kandy. This allowed us a glimpse of the hill country,
its lush vegetation, and of some tea and rubber plantations.
After Kandy the traffic increased, and it was not until 6pm that we arrived back at the
Tamarind Tree hotel near the airport.
Day 15. Friday 3 April 2015
Final departure to the airport.
Species Seen
Whales and Dolphins
Species Sightings Individuals
Blue Whale Balaenoptera musculus 11 12
Probable Blue Whale 1 1
Bryde’s Whale Balaenoptera brydei 1 2
Sperm Whale Physeter macrocephalus 1 50
Pilot Whale Globicephala macrorhynchus 1 80
Risso’s Dolphin Grampus griseus 1 20
Spinner Dolphin Stenella longirostris 5 555
Bottlenose dolphin Tursiops truncatus 1 180
Total 22 900
Land Mammals
Toque Macaque Macaca sinica
Grey (=Hanuman) Langur Semnopithecus priam
Purple-faced Leaf Monkey Trachypithecus vetulus
Golden Jackal Canis aureus
Grey Mongoose
Ruddy Mongoose
Herpestes edwardsi
Herpestes smithii
Leopard Panthera pardus kotiya
Asian Elephant Elephas maximus
Wild Boar Sus scrofa
Water Buffalo Bubalus bubalis
Sambar Cervus unicolour
Spotted Deer Cervus axis
Barking Deer Muntiacus muntjac
Palm Squirrel Funambulus palmarum
Giant Squirrel Ratufa macroura
Black-naped Hare Lepus nigricollis
Fruit Bat Pteropus giganteus
Birds
The main aims of our holiday were to see Whales, Elephants and Leopards, in which we
succeeded admirably. But Sri Lanka is such a wonderful birding location that it is impossible
not to see good numbers of birds with very little effort. At sea, we had many excellent views
of seabirds, particularly tropical terns. In total I recorded 137 species:
Peacock Changeable Hawk Eagle
*Sri Lankan Junglefowl Shikra
Little Grebe Peregrine Falcon (Shaheen)
Lesser Whistling Duck Little Cormorant
Cotton Pygmy-goose Indian Cormorant
Brown-headed Barbet Great Cormorant
Coppersmith Barbet Indian Darter
*Crimson-fronted Barbet Little Egret
Greater Flameback Intermediate Egret
White-breasted Kingfisher Great Egret
Common Kingfisher Cattle Egret
Pied Kingfisher Indian Pond Heron (Paddybird)
*Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill Black-crowned Night Heron
Malabar Pied Hornbill Grey Heron
Hoopoe Purple Heron
Green Bee-eater Black-headed Ibis
Blue-tailed Bee-eater Lesser Adjutant
Chestnut-headed Bee-eater Painted Stork
Indian Roller Openbill Stork
Chestnut-winged Cuckoo Woolly-necked Stork
Indian Cuckoo Spoonbill
Grey-bellied (Plaintive) Cuckoo Spot-billed Pelican
Asian Koel Wedge-tailed Shearwater
Blue-faced Malkoha Streaked Shearwater
Greater Coucal Bulwer’s Petrel
Rose-ringed Parakeet Indian Pitta
Crested Tree Swift Brown Shrike
Asian Palm Swift House Crow
House (=Little) Swift Jungle Crow
White-breasted Waterhen Barn Swallow
Purple Swamphen *Ceylon Swallow
Coot Black-hooded Oriole
Black-winged Stilt Black-headed Cuckooshrike
Pheasant-tailed Jacana Small Minivet
Greater Thick-knee White-bellied Drongo
Pin-tailed Snipe Asian Paradise Flycatcher
Pacific Golden Plover Black-naped Monarch
Little Ringed Plover White-browed Fantail
Lesser Sand Plover Jerdon’s Leafbird
Red-wattled Lapwing *Ceylon Woodshrike
Black-tailed Godwit Asian Brown Flycatcher
Greenshank TIckell’s Blue Flycatcher
Redshank Oriental Magpie Robin
Marsh Sandpiper Indian Robin
Common Sandpiper White-rumped Shama
Wood Sandpiper Rosy Starling
Curlew Sandpiper Common Myna
Little Stint Hill Myna
Brown-Headed Gull Red-vented Bulbul
Gull-billed Tern White-browed Bulbul
Great Crested Tern Plain Prinia
Lesser Crested Tern Grey-breasted Prinia
Common Tern Common Tailorbird
Little Tern Common Iora
Whiskered Tern Yellow-billed Babbler
White-winged Tern Ashy-crowned Sparrow Lark
Bridled Tern Oriental Skylark
Brown Noddy Jerdon’s Bushlark
Rock Dove Paddyfield Pipit
Spotted Dove Richard’s Pipit
Emerald Dove White-browed Fantail
*Sri Lankan Green Pigeon Pale-billed Flowerpecker
Orange-breasted Green Pigeon Purple-rumped Sunbird
Imperial Green Pigeon Purple Sunbird
Brahminy Kite Loten’s Sunbird
Black Eagle House Sparrow
White-bellied Sea Eagle Black-headed Munia
Grey-headed Fish Eagle Scaly-breasted Munia
Crested Serpent Eagle