Attraction

Kokkilai Bird Sanctuary

Home to an impressive array of endemic and migratory birds, Kokkilai Bird Sanctuary is a world-renowned ecological hotspot and protected reserve in Sri Lanka. Located approximately 25 kilometers south-east of Mullaitivu, the wildlife sanctuary is located in the eastern coastal region of the island. The park is composed of a lagoon and numerous geological features that offer birds and wildlife an abundant supply of food and space for them to thrive.

Due to its ecological significance, the region was designated as a wildlife sanctuary in the year of 1951 under the wildlife ordinance act of 1937. The park currently spans over an area of 1995 hectares which contains rivers, watering holes, mangroves, coastal strips, and seagrass beds.

Close to the sanctuary, there are human settlements as well and these regions include cultivated land and shrublands. The sanctuary is home to vibrant varieties of wader and water birds that independently fly around the park’s vast reaches. Numerous migratory birds too visit here seasonally to replenish themselves and to breed.

Some of the commonly spotted bird species in the sanctuary are egrets, cormorants, flamingoes, ducks, ibis, herons, storks, and pelicans. Not only birds, but the sanctuary is also home to a variety of flora and fauna which includes animals such as Elephants and endemic primate species. You can visit the sanctuary by contacting a local tour operator or who will arrange a tour of the park. It could either be a safari or a trek and regardless of what you choose, the experience will certainly be surreal and amazing!

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