SLT preserves Natural World Heritage, Sinharaja Forest

The Sinharaja Forest Reserve, renowned for its high biodiversity and ecological importance, is one of the oldest remaining natural rainforest environments in the world.

Located in the interior wet zone of the south-west region of Sri Lanka, the heritage site comprises a vivid landscape of mountains and ridges, above sea level. It was first recognised in 1936 as being the only patch of virgin tropical rain forest in the island.

Declared as a Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1990, this primary tropical rainforest has more than 60 per cent of trees which are endemic, with many of them considered as rare.

It is also home to a wide variety of endemic wildlife, especially birds, and to over 50% of Sri Lanka's endemic species of mammals and butterflies.

In recognition of the importance of creating awareness on conservation of the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Sri Lanka Telecom with the Field Ornithology Group of Sri Lanka (FOGSL) is continuing its "Preserving Heritage for tomorrow", program for the third consecutive year.

The partnership which began in 2006, has led to many programs being successfully held thus far, helping to create awareness among schoolchildren on the importance of nature conservation.

The FOGSL is an independent group based in the University of Colombo. Prof. Sarath Kotagama, a renowned ornithologist in the country, leads the FOGSL team and also plays an active role in the development of the program.