Did you know that Sri Lanka’s is home to a staggering; 92 species of mammals, Over 440 bird species, 242 Butterfly and 117 Dragonfly species, 190 reptiles of which 98 species are of snakes, while the remaining are of mainly lizards, crocodiles and turtles, 102 amphibian species, 107 species of fish! 3210 species of flowering plants ! And that…Overall, about 22 % of Sri Lanka’s amphibians, birds, mammals, and reptiles and 27% of our plants are endemic !
Jayantha Morris De Silva.'s Photos
Wild Life in Yala National Park, Sri-lanka. Slideshow
With such an extensive list of wildlife you’d think that Sri Lanka should be a large country…Contrary to popular thinking, Sri Lanka is actually one of the smallest countries in the world only 250 miles long and 150 miles wide, the size of an Ireland or Tasmania. However, it is blessed with a natural beauty and diversity that’s simply awe-inspiring. The main reason for this incredible diversity is the widely differing altitudes within the country, ranging from sea level to 2500m above sea level. Traveling from Sri Lanka’s coastal belt to Nuwara Eliya in the highlands, within the space of a couple of hours you’ll experience a refreshing change of scenery, from miles and miles of palm-lined golden coast to misty mountains and velvety tea plantations, and a total difference in climate from warm and sunny to the cool and temperate climate in the central highlands. For a small island our species diversity is certainly impressive, and has been made possible because of our ideal geographical position, mild yet variable climate, very very interesting topography and soil, thus creating many habitats for such a diverse array of flora and fauna.
Sri Lanka can be divided climatically into the smaller wet southwestern and the larger dry northeastern regions. These areas are home to very different species and many species are found in only one particular zone. Some animals however have become more associated with humans over the years, and can be found throughout the island. Our country is the sole remaining home for hundreds of species of plants and animals. Sadly, human expansion, and loss of habitat have resulted in the reduction and extinction of many species. Today, about 43 species have been listed as threatened by the World Conservation Union. This includes Sri Lanka’s own majestic elephant, the sloth bear and the leopard. However, at last we have stood up and taken notice of this important dilemma and started taking active steps towards protecting and conserving our precious and unique wildlife.
Sri Lanka - Discover The Beautiful Wasgamuwa National Park in Sri Lanka
By Pinky Mcbanon
The Wasgamuwa National Park in Sri Lanka is a refuge for Sri Lanka's wild animals. It was established back in 1984 during the Mahaweli development Project. Found within the districts of Polonnaruwa and Matale that is bordered by the Mahawali and Amban Rivers that stretches up to 36, 948 hectares.
The National Park is where the highest biodiversity between the sheltered areas in Sri Lanka are displayed. There are 150 floral species that have been recorded from the park. This is an amazing historical place too, for the ancient and old finds that are in the park. The forest within the park consists of many layers where the 1700 year old tree is found.
Wasgamuwa Park is the home of the 23 mammal species. There are 150 Sri Lankan elephants that are being kept here and are being cared for by the park care takers. There are also different kinds of wild animals that live in the national park that are rarely seen in the outside jungles nowadays.
This National park is an ideal place to go for families visiting Sri Lanka together with their children. Kids will love interacting with these unusual live animals that every kids love. They can try feeding the animals upfront so they can get the chance to get close with these animals.
Visitors will also enjoy watching the birds, several kinds of amphibians, fresh water fishes, reptiles, butterflies and other amazing animals.
There are also some accommodating establishments in Wasgamuwa national Park. There are Safari bungalows for those who want to stay in the park for a little longer, and pools for those who decide to swim after a long walk along the trail park. Every visitor will have the best time and experience a one of a kind park experience. Children and adults will enjoy and love the place so much that they will surely be back for more. You can visit the Wasgamuwa National Park any time of the year and be captivated with its very glorious beauty.
This is a perfect place for visiting families in Sri Lanka so take your family members and check it out!
Ms. Pinky is a mom of 3 school children. She is a Systems Engineer, a Technology Researcher and an Independent Medical Billing and Coding Consultant. She and her family is well-traveled all over the world!
Her blogs and websites focuses on stay-at-home moms, dads and students who wants to work at home, build homebased business http://www.mommyisworkingathome.com
Visit her Interesting Site on Asian Travels and Destinations. Discover Asia's Culture and Great Food! at http://www.goingplacesinasia.com
Nature reserves and wildlife parks in Sri Lanka
More than fifty nature reserves and national parks with safari rides and camping offers