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