Birdwatching in Tissa and Kataragama

Birdwatching in Tissamaharama is a must for those desiring to see the birds of Sri Lanka. Whether you choose to visit nearby Bundala National Park, head further afield to Yala or simply wander the shores of the local lakes, there is an abundance of birdlife to be discovered here.

Bundala National Park is internationally recognised as a key wintering ground for many species of migratory water birds, most of which travel from Siberia to Sri Lanka each year, and houses almost 200 different bird species ranging from vibrant Bee-Eaters to the extraordinary Open-Billed Storks. One of the main highlights are the large flocks of Greater Flamingo which can be seen between September and March, a vivid pink line streaking across the bright blue sky. It is also home to Spoonbill, Red Shank, Green Shank, Spot-Billed Pelican, Brahminiy Kite, Crested Hawk Eagle and Brown Strikes. Go on a jeep drive through the maze of lagoons, waterways and sand dunes in search of the most astounding of Sri Lanka’s birds.

Yala National Park is also within easy reach, but it is far less tranquil than Bundala as it is a tourist hotspot for those searching out Sri Lanka’s wildlife. However, it is an excellent place for bird watching and over a 100 species can be easily spotted in a full days visit to the park: around 230 species of resident, migrant and endemic birds have been recorded in Yala.

There is also a spectacular man-made tank in Tissamaharama – the Tissa Wewa – which hosts many birds throughout the year. There are also other smaller lakes nearby which are also fantastic spots for a leisurely birding outing. Tissa is undoubtedly one of the best locations in the island for birdwatching in Sri Lanka.