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Discover Sri Lanka’s Untamed Beauty: A Journey Through Its Wildlife and Nature – By Malsha – eLanka Sri Lanka, an island paradise in the Indian Ocean, is a dream destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Blessed with an astonishing diversity of flora and fauna, the country boasts lush rainforests, vast national parks, misty mountains, and golden beaches that support an incredible range of wildlife. From the iconic Asian elephant to the elusive Sri Lankan leopard, this tropical haven is a biodiversity hotspot waiting to be explored. A Haven for Wildlife Enthusiasts Sri Lanka is home to 26 national parks and several wildlife sanctuaries, each offering unique experiences for visitors. Some of the most notable include: Yala National Park – Renowned for having one of the highest densities of leopards in the world, Yala is a must-visit for big cat lovers. It also shelters elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and a variety ...

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The Mysterious Red Slender Loris: A Hidden Treasure of Sri Lanka’s Rainforests – By Nadeeka Deep within the dense rainforests of Sri Lanka, an elusive creature lurks in the shadows of towering trees. With its large, luminous eyes, reddish-brown fur, and stealthy nocturnal movements, the Red Slender Loris (Loris tardigradus) remains one of the most fascinating yet least understood primates in the world. Despite its small size and gentle nature, this endangered species faces a significant battle for survival due to deforestation, illegal pet trade, and human encroachment. A Unique Nocturnal Primate The Red Slender Loris is one of the smallest primates in the world, measuring only 10 to 15 inches in length and weighing less than 300 grams. Unlike its cousin, the Grey Slender Loris, this rare species has a distinct reddish-brown coat, which helps it camouflage perfectly in the dense foliage of Sri Lanka’s rainforests. One of its ...

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The Sri Lanka Cerulean Butterfly (Jamides coruscans) – By Nadeeka – eLanka Sri Lanka is home to some of the most fascinating and unique species of butterflies in the world, thanks to its diverse ecosystems and lush tropical landscapes. Among these, the Sri Lanka Cerulean Butterfly, scientifically known as Jamides coruscans, holds a special place due to its beauty and rarity. This delicate creature, endemic to the island, is a true testament to the natural splendor of Sri Lanka’s biodiversity. The Sri Lanka Cerulean Butterfly is a small species with a striking appearance. Its wings are a vibrant shade of blue, shimmering with silvery hues that catch the sunlight. The upper side of the wings is adorned with intricate black markings, adding a contrasting elegance to its overall look. The underside of the wings, however, is much paler, featuring subtle patterns that help the butterfly camouflage itself in the wild. ...

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The Enigmatic Nepenthes: Sri Lanka’s Mesmerizing “Badura” Plant – By Nadeeka – eLanka The Nepenthes, locally known as “Badura” in Sri Lanka, is one of nature’s most fascinating creations. This carnivorous plant, revered for its unique pitcher-like structure, thrives in the tropical landscapes of Sri Lanka, capturing the imagination of botanists and nature enthusiasts alike. Let’s delve into the mysteries of this extraordinary plant and discover what makes it so remarkable. A Carnivorous Wonder of Nature Nepenthes belongs to a genus of carnivorous plants widely known as pitcher plants. Unlike conventional flora, these plants derive essential nutrients by trapping and digesting insects and other small organisms. The plant’s pitchers, which are actually modified leaves, serve as traps. These pitcher-shaped structures are filled with a digestive liquid that breaks down the prey, allowing the plant to absorb nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. Native Habitats and Distribution In Sri Lanka, Nepenthes thrives ...

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The Slender Loris (Unahapuluwa): A Fascinating Creature of Sri Lanka’s Forests – By Bhanuka – eLanka The Slender Loris, scientifically known as Loris tardigradus, is a small nocturnal primate native to the forests of Sri Lanka and southern India. Locally referred to as Unahapuluwa in Sinhalese, this remarkable creature has captured the interest of wildlife enthusiasts, conservationists, and researchers due to its unique characteristics and critical role in the ecosystem. Physical Characteristics and Behavior The Slender Loris is instantly recognizable by its small, delicate body, large round eyes, and slender limbs. Measuring about 7 to 10 inches (18 to 25 cm) in length, this primate typically weighs less than 350 grams, making it one of the smallest primates in the world. Its long limbs and opposable thumbs allow it to expertly navigate through the forest canopy in search of food. The eyes of the Slender Loris are one of its ...

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Sri Lanka Junglefowl: A Vibrant Symbol of Natural Heritage – By Nadeeka – eLanka Sri Lanka, an island nation nestled in the Indian Ocean, is not only renowned for its rich cultural tapestry but also for its diverse and unique wildlife. Among the fascinating species that call this tropical paradise home, the Sri Lanka Junglefowl stands out as a vibrant symbol of the island’s natural heritage. Let’s delve into the intriguing world of this colorful bird, exploring its characteristics, significance, and the role it plays in the island’s ecosystems. Introduction to the Sri Lanka Junglefowl: The Sri Lanka Junglefowl (Gallus lafayettii) is a species of bird endemic to the island, making it a true representative of the country’s biodiversity. Belonging to the family Phasianidae, this bird is closely related to the common domestic chicken but possesses distinct features that set it apart. Distinctive Features: The male Sri Lanka Junglefowl is ...

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Graceful Elegance: Unveiling the Enigmatic World of the Sri Lankan Leopard – By Nadeeka – eLanka In the heart of Sri Lanka’s lush landscapes, a creature of unparalleled grace and mystery roams—the Sri Lankan Leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya). Cloaked in an aura of enigma, this elusive feline has captivated the imagination of wildlife enthusiasts and researchers alike. As we journey into the depths of its world, we uncover the intricacies of its habitat, behavior, and the concerted efforts being made to protect its existence. Majestic Habitat and Range The Sri Lankan Leopard reigns over a realm of diverse ecosystems, each a canvas painted with nature’s brush. From the dense canopies of rainforests that echo with the calls of exotic birds, to the arid grasslands where sunlight weaves a tapestry of gold—these are the domains where the leopard stakes its claim. The central highlands, a patchwork of montane forests and mist-kissed ...

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