1. Protected areas

Kaudulla National Park

IUCN category
II (National Park)
Designation type
National
Designation
National Park
Surface area
69 km²
Status year
2002
Governing type
Federal or national ministry or agency
Management authority
Department of Wildlife Conservation
Body

Kaudulla National Park is home to 23 species of mammals including Sambar Deer, Sri Lankan Axis Deer, Chevrotain, Wild boar, Leopard, and Sloth Bear are other mammals. Very rarely one could spot leopard and sloth bears. The best period of time to visit this park is during the months of June to September. Tourists find a ride in Paddle-boats on the lake an excellent opportunity to enjoy bird watching.

More than 160 species of bird including large water birds such as Spot-billed Pelican and Lesser Adjutant visit the Kaudulla tank. Asian Spoonbill, Grey-headed Fish Eagle, Black-headed Ibis, Painted Stork and Openbill Stork are common sights at the park. Peacock, Eagle, Giant Eagle add to the significance of the park. One of the most spectacular sceneries in the park is hundreds of pelicans at the tank when it is about to sunset