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Sri Lanka
is fortunate to be gifted by nature a wealth of animal
life and
luxuriant vegetation. Today,
in this small island of 65,610 sq km, approximately 14%
is dedicated to sanctuaries and nature reserves. Much
of the fauna is of Indian origin,
due to the fact that millions of years ago a strip of
land bridged the 2 countries, remnants are still visible. However,
the
period of separation has been sufficient for distinctive
indigenous fauna to evolve and 19%
are new species, totally endemic to Sri Lanka.
Of the 86 species of mammals, pride of place goes
to the majestic Elephant - the second largest terrestrial
animal surviving today. While
Sri Lanka does not have lions and
tigers, four species of
cats including the leopard are seen regularly in the
wildlife parks. Other
exotic species commonly seen are the Sloth Bear and many
varieties of Deer, Monkeys including the endemic Macaque,
Purple Faced Leaf Monkey and Shaggy Bear Monkey.
More common species are Wild boar, Jackals, Mongoose,
Porcupines, Giant Squirrels, many species of Rats and
Shrews and the aggressive and dangerous Wild Buffalo.
Most lakes and estuaries in the national parks attract
many Crocodiles belonging to 2 species endemic to Sri
Lanka. Five species of turtles frequent the shores all
over the island to lay eggs.
Legend has it that a King created the world’s first wildlife
sanctuary in Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BC. It is recorded
in the ancient Buddhist scriptures - "The King decreed
that all human beings should follow the hallowed Buddhist
precept of not harming any form of life".
Our tour covers most of the important national parks in
the island and we hope clients will leave enriched by
the knowledge gained and leave untouched the legacy for
future visitors.
For general wildlife enthusiasts, Sri Lanka is a great
destination as large mammals, elephants being a prime
example,
can be seen with relative ease. We, at Sri Lankan Holidays Hyderabad, arrange a safari taking you to the
large
national parks in the dry zone where the best opportunities
for game viewing are available. The Yala, Udawalawe national
park are used for a short stay vacation combining big
game viewing with leisure. |
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