Borneodaya: BIRDS OF SRI LANKA

Wednesday 7 August 2019

BIRDS OF SRI LANKA

BIRDS OF SRI LANKA

My final destination was Udawalawa, a small village near Udawalawa National Park, famous for it's herds of elephants and water buffalo. What a great area for birding. Upon arriving in the late afternoon I could hear many birds singing their song. My home stay was Falcons Nest, run by Amil and his extended family, a quiet place well off the main road. After getting acquainted and being shown my room I had a quick shower as I was anxious to get out to scout the area. Strolling around the area I could hear Asian koels, Barbets, Sunbirds and some Babblers. Sounded good to me, so went back for my meal and off to bed for an early rise in the morning. In the morning got up at 4:30 a.m. to the sounds of the Asian koels making their calls, plus another sound. Hornbills! Right across the street from me. Grabbed my camera and off I went, in more ways than one. My life revolved around my camera, getting up wandering off without breakfast or lunch , walking, standing, shooting for countless hours. Nothing was more important than to photograph the wild life. I became quite aware of school children passing me by, all of them giving me huge smiles and in their best English "good morning". They all looked so clean and fresh in their uniforms, I was delighted that they took the time to greet me. On my camera screen I showed some mothers and children what I was photographing to their joy and amazement.