Bird Watching in Mannar

Apart from its rich history and culture, Mannar is one huge bird paradise. Considered an important resting point for migratory birds from October to March, it has been a magnet for many species of birds which are not found in the southern half of the island. The Giant’s Tank, shallow mud flats and saline lakes between the mainland and Mannar attract large numbers of wintering birds. In particular Vankalai sanctuary, consisting numerous coastal and marine wetlands, and patches of dry zone scrubland and sand dunes, its integrated nature of shallow wetland and terrestrial coastal habitats encourage diversity of birds habituating in the wetlands. Therefore it is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to observe waders, water fowl and the great Flamingos that flock to the area in great numbers.
You will see Black Tail Godwits, Gargneys, Pintail Ducks, Gulls, Plovers, and Terns all in flocks of several hundreds. So many Raptors: White Bellied Sea Eagles, Brahamin Kites, Black Kites, Common Kestrels. In addition you can see Crab Plovers and Pied Avocets.