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Kalamatiya: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Kalamatiya: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Sri Lanka is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 species of birds calling the island home. One of the best places to go birdwatching in Sri Lanka is Kalametiya, a coastal wetland located in the Hambantota district.

Kalamatiya is home to over 160 species of birds, including both winter migrants and endemic species. Some of the birds you can see at Kalametiya include:

  • Greater flamingo

Greater flamingo bird in Sri Lanka

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  • Lesser flamingo

Lesser flamingo bird in Sri Lanka

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  • Spoonbill

Spoonbill bird in Sri Lanka

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  • Ibis

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Ibis bird in Sri Lanka

  • Heron

Heron bird in Sri Lanka

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Egret

Egret bird in Sri Lanka

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  • Kingfisher

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Kingfisher bird in Sri Lanka

Bee-eater

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Bee-eater bird in Sri Lanka

  • Roller

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Roller bird in Sri Lanka

Owl

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Owl bird in Sri Lanka

In addition to birds, Kalametiya is also home to a variety of other wildlife, such as snakes, lizards, and monkeys.

The best time to go birdwatching at Kalametiya is during the dry season, from November to March. This is when the winter migrants are present. However, you can still see a variety of birds throughout the year.

There are a few different ways to go birdwatching at Kalametiya. You can rent a boat and explore the lagoons, or you can take a guided walk through the mangroves. There are also a number of birdwatching platforms located around the sanctuary.

Kalamatiya is a beautiful and peaceful place to spend a day birdwatching. If you’re a fan of birds, be sure to add it to your list of places to visit in Sri Lanka.

Here are some tips for planning your trip to Kalametiya:

  • The best time to go is during the dry season, from November to March.
  • You can rent a boat or take a guided walk through the sanctuary.
  • There are a number of birdwatching platforms located around the sanctuary.

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