Joanna James
Bundala one of Sri Lanka's unique national parks is made up of biodiverse environs. The area is home to a variety of wildlife that's a treat to observe. Listed are some of the fascinating species.
Bundala is located in the Hambantota district 250kms south-east from Colombo and visiting the park is one of the top things to do in Galle, Sri Lanka; a heritage city that offers one access to the southeastern coast home to historical and prominent resorts such as Tangalle and Bundala. At Bundala you will observe the two species of crocodiles living in Sri Lanka, in fact, it is the only place that both species are observed. Around the bay of the Kirinda Oya you will spot a large collection of estuary crocodiles in the lagoon sections while freshwater crocodiles also called 'muggers' are seen within the lakes that make up the upper section of Kirinda Oya. The world's largest reptile species the males of the estuary crocs grow to lengths of 7 metres.
Elephants are not found in abundance around Bundala and may be hard to spot although heading out to the beach one may come across a herd of about 60. Hiring a 4x4 jeep safari into the park will give you an added chance of spotting the animals with the aid of an experienced guide. The park is not far from Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort and other beach hotels that offer services of 4x4 jeep safaris into the park; these tours are accompanied by experienced guides knowledgeable on animal's favourite haunts.
Leopards too are spotted in Bundala and if one is lucky you can spot the animals preying on one of the sambar or spotted deer that roam the park in abundance. Leopard sightings are rare unless you head out to the rocky outcrops that dot the park.
There are over a 150 bird species frequenting Bundala National Park. Just about every type of water bird species found in Sri Lanka has been sighted in Bundala. The highlights of any bird watchers tour in the park are sightings of the very rare Great Thick Knee and the Black Necked Stork. Others on the list are spoonbill, blue tailed bee eater, spotted billed pelican, green shank, red shank, crested hawk eagles and much more.
Apart from the highlight and thrill of spotting elephants or roaming leopards the park is a wildlife enthusiasts dream. The place is home to giant squirrels, civet cats, sloth bears, jackals, barking deer, sambar, spotted deer and many other shy forest creatures that are a treat to observe.
Bundala is made up of about 6000 hectares of salt water lagoons, salt pans, mud flats and scrub jungle. Amongst some of the migratory bird species occupying the wetlands of Bundala are the colourful flamingos a super treat to stumble upon.
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A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
