Anavilundawa Bird Sanctuary
This sanctuary comes under the Department of Wildlife Conservation. It is 1,397 hectares in extent and primarily a complex oflarge tanks and adjoining forest. The largest of the tanks holds a large breeding colony of Herons and other water birds mainlyduring the months of April- June. The dominant species is the Openbill, Great Cormorant, White Ibis and a host of otherspecies occurs here. A stroll on the bund of this tank will allow one to get close to the breeding colony. During the season manyspecies of migrants can also be seen. Meals and accommodation for those interested in staying overnight are available at the Chilaw or Puttalam Rest House and private guest houses in the area.
How to get there: - Colombo -Negombo - Chilaw -Turn left at a small Buddhist shrine. Upon turning to this road the Anavilundawa Railway Station is on the right - Proceed one km to reach the tank (2 1/2 hours).
BIRDS: Openbill, Purple Coot, Common Moorhen, Lesser Whistling Teal, Purple Heron, Grey Heron, Stork-Billed, Common, Pied & White-Breasted Kingfishers, Gargeny, White-Bellied Sea Eagle, Grey-Headed Fish Eagle, Black-Winged Stilt, Cotton Teal,Indian Shag, Spoonbill, Large, Median & Little Egrets, Black-Backed Yellow Woodpecker, Brown Fish Owl and many more.
