Exploring Sri Lanka’s Wildlife: A Photographic Journey through Nature’s Biological Diversity

By Ifham Nizam

Sri Lanka, often celebrated for its cultural heritage and scenic landscapes, also boasts a captivating array of wildlife that remains one of the most diverse in the region.

The latest edition to hit the market shortly, A Photographic Guide to the Wildlife of Sri Lanka, crafted by the renowned naturalist and photographer Gehan de Silva Wijeyeratne, captures this biodiversity in exquisite detail. With contributions from leading experts, this guide transcends traditional wildlife books, providing a comprehensive, user-friendly resource that appeals to amateur wildlife enthusiasts and seasoned researchers alike.

This book covers more than 90 percent of Sri Lanka’s recorded fauna and flora, featuring some 453 birds, 122 mammals, 330 butterflies, and an extensive catalog of reptiles, amphibians, and plants.

It is an unprecedented visual and educational compendium, utilising more than 1,250 high-quality photographs that vividly bring each species to life. From intricate details of dragonflies and rare frogs to the striking beauty of endemic birds, this guide offers a fresh perspective on Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and ecological significance.

Needless to say, Wijeyeratne is not only a naturalist and photographer but also a key figure in establishing Sri Lanka as a major wildlife destination. He has been instrumental in developing Sri Lanka’s eco-tourism industry, and his work has earned him widespread respect among wildlife advocates.

In this guide, Wijeyeratne combines his expertise in photography with his passion for conservation, creating an immersive experience that brings readers into direct contact with Sri Lanka’s vibrant ecosystems.

In collaboration with experts like Dr. Anslem de Silva and Dr. Kanishka Ukuwela, Wijeyeratne offers more than a mere catalog; he presents an intimate glimpse into the life and habitats of species, some of which are found only in Sri Lanka. The guide includes a unique overview of key wildlife-watching sites across the island, such as the Sinharaja Rainforest, Horton Plains, and Yala National Park, each famous for its distinct ecosystem and species.

The structure of A Photographic Guide to the Wildlife of Sri Lanka makes it especially accessible. Each section is organised by species groups, with detailed sections on birds, mammals, reptiles, and insects, among others. For each species, readers can find clear descriptions of identifying features, habitat preferences, and behaviours, accompanied by stunning close-up photographs. The guide’s layout encourages readers to explore the wide range of life that thrives across Sri Lanka’s diverse habitats, from lowland rainforests to mountainous regions and coastal waters.

This guide goes beyond simple identification. For example, in the section on amphibians, readers learn about unique species such as the Nagao’s Pug-snout Frog, a small, tree-dwelling frog known for its mutualistic relationship with theraphosid spiders, a behaviour that showcases the complexity of interspecies relationships in Sri Lanka’s rainforests.

Stork-billed Kingfisher

Similarly, the guide provides detailed descriptions of larger, charismatic animals, like the Rusty-spotted Cat, one of the smallest wild cats in the world, and the Fishing Cat, a larger nocturnal predator often found near water bodies around Colombo, establishing the city as a “Fishing Cat capital.”

Wijeyeratne’s guide is not only a tribute to Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity but also a call to action for its preservation. Sri Lanka is home to numerous endangered and vulnerable species, with threats ranging from habitat destruction to climate change. By providing readers with extensive details on endangered species like the Golden Palm Civet and the critically endangered Vermilion Forester dragonfly, the guide raises awareness about the urgent need for conservation efforts.

Sri Lanka’s ecosystems are complex and interwoven, and preserving them requires a dedicated effort from both locals and visitors. By including maps and habitat information, Wijeyeratne’s book offers practical insights that can help readers engage with wildlife ethically and responsibly, whether they are hiking through the Sinharaja Rainforest or exploring the coastal biodiversity near Weligama.

The Photographic Guide to the Wildlife of Sri Lanka serves as more than a field guide—it is an educational tool and a visual archive of Sri Lanka’s natural wonders. Through captivating images and expertly researched descriptions, the guide encourages readers to deepen their understanding of wildlife and the environment. Wijeyeratne’s work aims to foster a global appreciation for Sri Lanka’s biodiversity and inspire readers to become advocates for conservation.

In the words of Bill Oddie, British wildlife presenter, “No single individual has done so much to raise the profile of a country for its wildlife.” Wijeyeratne’s dedication to elevating Sri Lanka as a global wildlife destination resonates throughout the book, inviting readers from around the world to experience the incredible diversity of species that inhabit this island. His vision is clear: to spark curiosity, foster respect for nature, and inspire action to protect the natural legacy of Sri Lanka.