Some aspects of Wildlife in Sri Lanka...
Though Sri Lanka is very small in land area, the great diversity in
habitats harbours are a rich and diverse fauna and flora, with many
species endemic to the island.
Historically as well as in the modern era, successive rulers and
governments of Sri Lanka have strived to provide sanctuary and
protection to our beautiful wildlife. Today the demand and aspirations
of an expanding human population makes it difficult for the government
to be solely responsible for the protection, preservation and management
of this beguiled wild heritage of ours.
Today, especially where human interest and wildlife interest are in
direct conflict. It is imperative that private organizations with
resources step into and fill the areas that need immediate attention:
environmental education, long term research, and to develop integrated
projects for community based conservation.
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Of the four species of wild cats found in Sri
Lanka, the leopard is the largest. No information exists for all the
species of cats in regard to their population, distribution and status.
There is also small scale poaching of all the species of cats for
their skins, teeth and meat.

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Fifty three species of amphibians are found in Sri Lanka, of which
over 25 species are endemic.
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The inland waters of Sri Lanka have more than 60 species of fresh
water fish of which over 24 species are only found in Sri Lanka. Closer
to a thousand species of fish are found in the coastal waters
surrounding the island.
Domestic and industrial affluents and pollutants discharged into
rivers and other waterways are a threat to the survival of these fresh
water and coastal fishes, and other marine ecosystems such as coral
reefs.
The territorial waters of the Indian Ocean is also home to a rich and
varied marine life. Five species of sea turtles and 25 species of whales
and dolphins inhabit these coastal waters.
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Of the five species of deer found in Sri Lanka, the spotted deer and
its cousin, the sambar, have the largest distribution. Though there are
still large populations of spotted deer in some areas, all five species
of deer are relentlessly poached for venison. Studies to ascertain their
ecology, distribution and status are urgently needed.
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The sloth bear is the only species of bear found in Sri Lanka,
further research is needed to find out more about its ecology,
distribution and status.
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The cobra is one of the most well known snakes of the over 90 species
of snakes found in Sri Lanka. There are also many species of lizards,
two species of crocodiles and monitors, two species of aquatic turtles
and one species of tortoise found in the island.
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Sri Lanka has more than 400 species of birds consisting of residents,
visitors and migrants. Of this 26 species are endemic to the island.
Large and small scale clearing of jungles and forests, causes local
extinctions of the more specialized species, and threatens the survival
of others.
It is imperative to establish regional and urban wildlife sanctuaries
for their long term survival.
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