The sweet melodies of songbirds, the fresh earthy fragrance of the woods, glimpses of wild creatures in their natural habitat… who wouldn’t want to experience these by being in nature’s cradle? This is exactly what awaits the curious nature lover in you at Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary! Located 20 km away from Tangalle town, this nature reserve is filled with lush green ecosystems like scrub jungles and mangroves that teems with a vibrant array of wildlife. It was established in 1984 and it is regarded as one of the oldest wildlife reserves in Sri Lanka
The sanctuary is composed of numerous water bodies hence most bird watching tours happen on a boat with a skilled guide. He will help you identify the names of the birds and other creatures that call the forest home as and when you spot them. The reserve is home to over 150 species of birds of which 54 are migratory species. You will see birds such as Brahminy Kites, Purple Swamp-hens, and Grey Herons which are wintering birds – the lagoon also attracts water birds like Black Bittern, Slaty-breasted Crake and Watercock. A few threatened bird species such as the Sri Lankan Black-capped Purple Kingfisher, Glossy Ibis, Indian Reef Heron, and the Sri Lankan Jungle Fowl can also be witnessed in the reserve if luck favours you.
Apart from birds, there are 41 species of fish, 38 species of reptiles, and 20 species of mammals that call the sanctuary home. Try to spot the Hanuman Langur and Grey Mongoose while on an excursion here. Plantlife too is diverse here and they thrive drawing nutrients from the water of the lagoon. This is a truly inspirational place to visit and one of the most recommended spots for bird watching.
Not just bird watching but taking the jungle trek is also an option. Be sure to be dressed in appropriate clothing and proper hiking shoes as the jungle trek is a little wet and muddy. Nevertheless, the experience is so much more amazing on foot as you can explore and uncover its secrets at your own pace by completely immersing yourself in nature.
