The vibrant coastal city of Negombo is well-known amongst travellers for its beautiful lagoons, tantalizing array of fresh seafood and of course, the splendor and relaxation provided by the unique Negombo Resort and hotels located along the pristine oceanfront, much like the Club Hotel Dolphin for instance. However, just an hour away lies the unspoiled natural beauty of the Anawilundawa Sanctuary, a large wetland that is home to a verity of bird species.
What makes this sanctuary unique is the diverse eco-logical systems that surround it, bordered by the coast, mangroves and freshwater lakes, it is an important location for conservation and is listed as one of six RAMSAR protected wetlands in the country. Anawilundawa is made up of six man-made reservoirs and three outlying reservoirs that are interconnected to create an intricate irrigation system to store and supply water to surrounding paddy fields and cultivations. The tanks themselves are ancient, with a history dating back to the 12th century, but the original water source that fed the tank has long since dried up.
These immense reservoirs have created a beautiful wetland habitat that attracts thousands of colourful birds, both native and migratory, that use it as a nesting and breeding ground. As many as 150 endemic species like the egret, cormorant, ibis and the purple swamp hen are reported to inhabit the area, whilst the best time to view migratory birds is between October to April.
You can also spot several species of endangered fish, amphibians and reptiles here as well as twenty species of mammals that include monkeys, the rusty-spotted cat, five species of slender loris and the Indian otter. Up to 74 varieties of butterflies also breed in the area. As a result, the sanctuary is extremely popular among birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts, especially early in the year when the reservoirs are full after the monsoon rains.
Auburn Silver is a travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
