Birds in
Sri Lanka
Brown fish owl
The Brown Fish Owl (Ketupa zeylonensis) is a large and striking owl native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, including Sri Lanka. Easily recognizable by its prominent ear tufts, piercing yellow eyes, and streaked brown plumage, this majestic bird is often found near water bodies in forests and wooded areas. As its name suggests, the Brown Fish Owl primarily feeds on fish and aquatic prey, but it also hunts small mammals, birds, and insects. Despite facing challenges like habitat destruction and pollution, it remains classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. The owl’s deep, resonant hoots echoing through the night make it a distinctive presence in its natural habitat, contributing to the mystique of the forest.
Photographed by Thilina Karunanayaka
Sri Lankan Junglefowl
The Sri Lankan Junglefowl (Gallus lafayettii) is a vibrant and iconic bird endemic to Sri Lanka. Known for its vivid plumage, the male displays striking hues of red, orange, and yellow, with a prominent comb and wattle. This species inhabits forests and scrublands across the island, where it forages for seeds, insects, and small invertebrates. Despite being the national bird of Sri Lanka, the Sri Lankan Junglefowl faces threats from habitat loss and hybridization with domestic chickens. Nevertheless, it is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, largely due to its wide distribution across protected areas. The loud calls of this bird, especially at dawn, are a familiar and evocative sound in the Sri Lankan wilderness.
Photographed by Thilina Karunanayaka
Sri Lankan Frog Mouth
The Sri Lanka Frogmouth (Batrachostomus moniliger) is a cryptic nocturnal bird found in the dense forests of Sri Lanka and the Western Ghats of India. With its broad, flat beak resembling a frog’s mouth and mottled brown plumage, it blends seamlessly into its surroundings, making it difficult to spot. The Sri Lanka Frogmouth is primarily active at night, feeding on insects and small invertebrates. Its haunting, soft, and repetitive calls echo through the forest during dusk and dawn. Though elusive, this bird is of Least Concern according to the IUCN Red List, as it inhabits well-protected forest areas in its range. The Frogmouth’s unique appearance and mysterious behavior make it a fascinating species in Sri Lanka’s avian diversity.
Photographed by Thilina Karunanayaka
Sri Lanka Bay Owl
The Sri Lanka Bay Owl (Phodilus assimilis) is a rare and enigmatic bird found in the dense rainforests of Sri Lanka and parts of the Western Ghats in India. Recognizable by its heart-shaped facial disk and prominent ear tufts, this medium-sized owl features striking plumage of mottled browns and creamy hues, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the forest understory. Primarily nocturnal, it is known for its soft, eerie calls that resonate through the night, adding an element of mystery to its surroundings. The Sri Lanka Bay Owl preys on small mammals, birds, and insects, using its acute hearing and silent flight to hunt in the darkness. Unfortunately, this species is currently listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, mainly due to habitat loss and deforestation. Protecting its forest habitat is crucial to ensuring that this elusive bird continues to thrive in the wild for generations to come.
Photographed by Thilina Karunanayaka
Serendib scops owl
The Serendib Scops Owl (Otus thilohoffmanni) is a captivating and endemic bird found exclusively in the forests of Sri Lanka. This small owl is renowned for its striking appearance, featuring a rounded head, large yellow eyes, and ear tufts that enhance its distinctive look. Its plumage is a beautiful mix of browns, grays, and creams, providing excellent camouflage among the tree branches and foliage. The Serendib Scops Owl is primarily nocturnal, hunting insects, small mammals, and birds, using its keen eyesight and silent flight to navigate through the darkness. Its soft, melodic calls can often be heard echoing through the night, creating a serene atmosphere in its forest habitat. Sadly, the species is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss and degradation. Conservation efforts are essential to protect this remarkable owl and its unique forest ecosystem, ensuring that it remains a cherished part of Sri Lanka’s natural heritage for generations to come.
Photographed by Thilina Karunanayaka
Sri Lanka Blue Magpie
The Sri Lanka Blue Magpie (Urocissa ornata) is a stunning and colorful bird endemic to the forests of Sri Lanka, known for its striking plumage and lively behavior. This medium-sized magpie features a vibrant blue body, a long tail, and contrasting black wings and a red bill, creating a spectacular visual display against the green backdrop of its natural habitat. The Sri Lanka Blue Magpie is highly social, often found in small groups, and is known for its playful and inquisitive nature. It primarily feeds on fruits, insects, and small vertebrates, playing a significant role in its ecosystem as a seed disperser. This beautiful bird is currently classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss and fragmentation, primarily driven by deforestation and human encroachment. Conservation efforts are vital to protect the Sri Lanka Blue Magpie and its habitat, ensuring that this remarkable species continues to thrive in the wild for generations to come.
Photographed by Thilina Karunanayaka
Spot-billed Pelican
The Spot-billed Pelican (Pelecanus philippensis) is a large waterbird found across South and Southeast Asia, including Sri Lanka. Characterized by its pale plumage, distinctive spotted bill, and a pouch with a hint of pink, this pelican typically inhabits inland lakes, marshes, and coastal lagoons. It feeds mainly on fish, scooping up its prey with its large bill. While the global population of the Spot-billed Pelican faces threats from habitat destruction and pollution, it is currently listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. In Sri Lanka, it is frequently seen in large water bodies within national parks and wetland reserves, where it roosts in colonies. The sight of these majestic birds soaring gracefully in the sky is a highlight for birdwatchers in the region.
Photographed by Thilina Karunanayaka
Sri Lankan Thrush
The Sri Lanka Thrush (Zoothera imbricata) is a fascinating bird endemic to the lush rainforests of Sri Lanka, known for its elusive nature and captivating appearance. This medium-sized thrush is characterized by its rich brown upperparts and distinct scaly-patterned underbelly, providing excellent camouflage in its dense forest habitat. Its melodious and flute-like song echoes through the undergrowth, making it a sought-after sighting for bird enthusiasts. The Sri Lanka Thrush primarily feeds on insects, earthworms, and small fruits, playing a crucial role in maintaining the balance of its ecosystem. However, due to habitat fragmentation and human disturbances, the species is currently listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Conservation efforts are essential to protect this rare and beautiful bird, ensuring that it continues to grace the forests of Sri Lanka for generations to come.
Photographed by Thilina Karunanayaka
White-rumped shama
The White-rumped Shama (Copsychus malabaricus) is a captivating songbird found in the forests and woodlands of South and Southeast Asia, including Sri Lanka. Renowned for its melodious and varied song, this bird features striking plumage with a glossy black head, white belly, and a long, graceful tail. The male is especially noted for its impressive vocal performances, which it uses to attract a mate and defend its territory. The White-rumped Shama is typically found in dense undergrowth and forest edges, where it feeds on insects, worms, and fruits. Although its beautiful song and vibrant appearance make it a favorite among birdwatchers, the species faces challenges from habitat loss due to deforestation. Thankfully, it is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it is relatively stable, though continued habitat preservation is crucial for its long-term survival.
Photographed by Thilina Karunanayaka
Indian roller
The Indian Roller (Coracias benghalensis) is a stunning bird native to the Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia. Renowned for its vibrant plumage, the Indian Roller displays an impressive array of colors, including shades of blue, turquoise, and brown. Its striking appearance is complemented by its distinctive rolling flight display, which showcases its beautiful wingspan. Often seen perched on roadside trees or electric wires, the Indian Roller primarily feeds on insects, small reptiles, and occasionally small mammals. Despite facing threats from habitat loss and hunting, it is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, thanks to its adaptable nature and wide distribution. The bird’s eye-catching colors and aerial acrobatics make it a favorite among bird enthusiasts and a visual delight in the landscapes it inhabits.
Photographed by Thilina Karunanayaka
Indian Robin
The Indian Robin (Saxicoloides fulicatus) is a charming bird native to the Indian subcontinent, celebrated for its striking coloration and lively behavior. This small robin exhibits a distinctive appearance, with the male showcasing a glossy black head, a chestnut-brown back, and a pale underbelly, while the female is more subdued in color, featuring a brownish hue with lighter underparts. The Indian Robin is commonly found in open fields, scrublands, and urban areas, where it forages for insects, seeds, and fruits. Its cheerful and melodious song enhances the natural ambiance, making it a favorite among birdwatchers and nature lovers. Currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, the Indian Robin is adaptable and thrives in various habitats, though habitat loss remains a concern. Conservation efforts are essential to ensure that this delightful bird continues to flourish in the landscapes of India for generations to come.
Photographed by Thilina Karunanayaka
Indian Peafowl
The Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus), also known as the Indian Peacock, is an iconic bird native to the Indian subcontinent, renowned for its stunning plumage and vibrant courtship displays. The male peafowl boasts an extravagant tail, or train, adorned with iridescent eye spots, which it fans out during mating rituals to attract females. In contrast, the female, or peahen, has a more subdued coloration, primarily featuring earthy browns and tans that provide excellent camouflage in its natural habitat. Indian Peafowls are typically found in forests, grasslands, and near agricultural areas, where they forage for seeds, fruits, and small insects. Their distinctive calls and beautiful displays make them a symbol of grace and beauty in many cultures. Classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, Indian Peafowls face threats from habitat loss and hunting. Conservation efforts are vital to ensure their continued presence in the wild, allowing future generations to admire these magnificent birds.
Photographed by Thilina Karunanayaka
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Thilina Lakmal ,
Nadukarawatta ,
Sandalankawa , Sri Lanka
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