The Bird Trail - A Bird Lover’S Dream Come True
Revel in the beauty of the exotic native and migrant bird population of Sri Lanka early in the morning, along the banks of the Kandalama tank. Grey Herons, Kingfishers and Crested Serpent Eagles are among the species that can be seen here.
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their migration routes. In their search for warm and plentiful habitats over 100 species regularly choose the tropical settings of Sri Lanka. Adding their presence to the resident population of around 450 birds gives this island an enticingly high density of birds, making it a bird watchers' paradise.
The best spots to see these local and foreign avian species are the rural regions that are around the protected lands and national parks scattered through the country. With the Sinharaja Rainforest to the west, Udawalawa and Yala to the south and east, and Ritigala and Kandalama to the central north, there is an abundance of locations that give a good view of the variety of birds that can be observed.
Habarana and Sigiriya are great places from which to embark on bird watching adventures in Sri Lanka. Head to the area surrounded by the low land vegetation and the banks of the Kandalama reservoir; wildlife is drawn to this area in plentiful as they come in search of food and water. The forest, with trees of over 100 years old and thick brush covering the ground, gives shelter to the endemic Sri Lanka Jungle Fowl, Spurfowl and Brown- capped Babbler, and the Grey horn-bill.
Away from the presence of man you might see the majestic beauty of the peacock or the seasonal immigrants. Be sure to have your cameras and binoculars in hand ready to catch a glimpse of the vibrant colours and behaviours of wildlife when your guide points them out. Keep quiet and listen to the myriad of unique birdsong that in itself is a wonderful experience.
Those looking for a Dambulla hotel in the region can stay at Chaaya Village Habarana. It offers its guest a unique nature experience, with a guided walk through the nearby bush - ideal habitat of Egrets - in the early morning. The tank is a magnet for aquatic birds like the Grey Heron and Kingfisher, as well as raptors like the Crested Serpent Eagle and white-bellied sea Eagle. Chaaya Village is a wonderfully situated hotel Sigiriya with the ruins of Anuradhapura being an easy drive away. You can also visit the World Heritage Site of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and experience the serenity of rural Sri Lanka in the village setting while indulging in the comfort of convenience.