Udawalawe National Park in Sri Lanka is renowned as a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts, particularly famous for its large elephant population. However, the park is home to a much wider variety of fascinating creatures. A safari here offers the chance to encounter numerous species, from formidable predators to vibrant birds and elusive reptiles. This guide highlights some of the most notable Animals In Udawalawe National Park that you might be lucky enough to spot during your visit.
Encountering Udawalawe’s Wildlife
Sri Lankan Elephant
The Sri Lankan elephant (Elephas maximus maximus) is a distinct subspecies of the Asian elephant and the undisputed star of Udawalawe. Native to the island, these huge and graceful animals are a primary draw for visitors. With a population exceeding 400 individuals within the park, sightings of elephants are virtually guaranteed, often in large herds near water sources.
Chance to see: Guaranteed
Mugger Crocodile
Also known as the mugger or marsh crocodile, the mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris) is one of Sri Lanka’s largest predators. These formidable reptiles are often found lurking in the park’s reservoirs and waterways. While sightings are common, observing one actively hunting, perhaps a water buffalo, is a rarer and thrilling experience.
Chance to see: High
Water Buffalo
The water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis), whether domestic or wild Asian water buffalo, is a ubiquitous sight in Udawalawe. These animals are perfectly adapted to the park’s environment, spending a significant part of their day submerged in muddy waters. Their wide, splayed hooves prevent them from sinking into the soft ground, making them adept navigators of the park’s wetlands. Spotting large herds enjoying the water is a certainty.
Chance to see: Guaranteed
Changeable Hawk-Eagle
A large and powerful bird of prey, the changeable hawk-eagle (Nisaetus cirrhatus), also known as the crested hawk-eagle, is a magnificent aerial hunter found in Udawalawe. Identified by its brown upperparts and pale underparts with barring on the flight feathers, this bird possesses a strong beak suited for hunting. Keep an eye on the skies and trees for a chance to spot this impressive raptor.
Chance to see: High
Bee-eaters
For birdwatching enthusiasts, bee-eaters (Merops) are a highlight in Udawalawe. These small, brightly colored birds are known for their gregarious nature and vibrant plumage. They are remarkably fast and agile flyers, expert at catching insects mid-air. Bee-eaters are often seen in groups, adding a splash of color and activity to the park’s landscape.
Chance to see: Guaranteed
Ruddy Mongoose
The ruddy mongoose (Urva smithii) is a species native to hill forests in India and Sri Lanka. Mongooses are famously known for their ability to confront snakes, a trait highlighted in stories like “Rikki-Tikki-Tavi.” Their diet is varied, including rodents, snakes, bird eggs, lizards, and invertebrates. While present in Udawalawe, spotting this agile creature requires a bit of luck.
Chance to see: Medium
Indian Peafowl
The magnificent Indian peafowl (Pavo cristatus), also called the common or blue peafowl, is native to the Indian subcontinent and a common resident of Udawalawe. Male peacocks with their stunning iridescent plumage and elaborate tail display are a spectacular sight, often seen strutting through the park, especially in open areas.
Chance to see: Guaranteed
Sri Lankan Leopard
The Sri Lankan leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya) is an iconic and critically endangered subspecies endemic to Sri Lanka. Udawalawe has a small leopard population compared to other parks like Yala, making sightings here quite rare and a true stroke of luck for visitors. These elusive big cats prefer dense cover and are masters of camouflage.
Chance to see: Low
Jungle Cat
The jungle cat (Felis chaus), also known by names like reed cat or swamp cat, is another feline species inhabiting Udawalawe. While present, they tend to avoid open spaces and stick to denser vegetation, making them less frequently seen during standard safari routes compared to other animals.
Chance to see: Low
Toque Macaque
An Old World monkey endemic to Sri Lanka, the toque macaque (Macaca sinica) is easily recognizable by its reddish-brown fur and distinctive hair whorl on its head (the “toque”). Known locally as rilewa or rilawa, these monkeys are widespread across the island, including within Udawalawe Park, where they can be observed in their natural habitat.
Chance to see: High
Black-winged Kite
The black-winged kite (Elanus caeruleus), also called the black-shouldered kite, is a distinctive bird of prey found in the park. It stands out with its elegant white, grey, and black plumage and unique owl-like forward-facing red eyes. Spotting this raptor perched or hovering is a treat for birdwatchers.
Chance to see: Low
Orange-breasted Green Pigeon
A colorful avian resident, the orange-breasted green pigeon (Treron bicinctus) is a beautiful bird found across tropical Asia, including the forests near the coast in Sri Lanka. This species prefers forest habitats and adds a vibrant splash of color with its distinctive orange and green feathers.
Chance to see: High
Bengal Monitor
The Bengal monitor (Varanus bengalensis), also known as the common Indian monitor, is a large lizard that can be seen in Udawalawe. These impressive reptiles can grow quite large, reaching lengths of up to 175 cm. They are often spotted on the ground but are capable climbers and may ascend trees in search of food.
Chance to see: High
Gray Langurs
Gray langurs, also referred to as Hanuman langurs or Hanuman monkeys, are Old World monkeys originating from the Indian subcontinent, including Sri Lanka. Their predominantly white, pale, or gray coat makes them relatively easy to spot against the green backdrop of the jungle, often seen in trees or on the ground.
Chance to see: Medium
Indian Star Tortoise
The Indian star tortoise (Geochelone elegans) is a threatened tortoise species found in the dry areas and scrub forests of India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Recognizable by the star-like patterns on its shell, this tortoise can grow up to 25 cm long. Finding one during a safari in Udawalawe is not common due to their slow nature and preference for less open habitats.
Chance to see: Low
Sri Lankan Jackal
The Sri Lankan jackal (Canis aureus naria), a subspecies of the golden jackal, is native to southern India and Sri Lanka. These canids are adaptable and can be found in various habitats within Udawalawe, though spotting them regularly on safari trails is not guaranteed.
Chance to see: Medium
Painted Stork
A large and visually striking wader, the painted stork (Mycteria leucocephala) is part of the stork family and is found in the wetlands across tropical Asia, including Sri Lanka. These impressive birds, which can stand up to 160 cm tall, are often seen near the numerous reservoirs in Udawalawe Park, easily identifiable by their size and colorful plumage.
Chance to see: High
Pied Kingfisher
The pied kingfisher (Ceryle rudis) is a widespread species of water kingfisher throughout Sri Lanka. Easily recognized by its black and white plumage, males have a double band across the breast, while females have a single band. They are often seen hovering over water before diving for fish.
Chance to see: High
White-bellied Sea Eagle
Among the various eagle species in Udawalawe, the white-bellied sea eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster) is particularly distinctive. Also known as the white-breasted sea eagle, it has a white head, rump, and underparts contrasted with a dark or slate-grey back and wings. When in flight, its black flight feathers are clearly visible from below. These majestic birds are often seen soaring over the park’s reservoirs.
Chance to see: High
Brown Fish Owl
The brown fish owl (Ketupa zeylonensis) is a species of fish owl found from Turkey across South and Southeast Asia. Belonging to the typical owl family, Strigidae, this nocturnal predator is adapted to hunting in riparian areas. Spotting owls during a daylight safari is less likely, making this a rarer sighting in Udawalawe.
Chance to see: Low
Indian or Long-nosed Vine Snake
The Indian or Long-nosed vine snake (Ahaetulla oxyrhyncha) is a mildly venomous, diurnal, and arboreal snake species found in the lowlands of peninsular India. While widespread, it prefers dense jungle habitats away from common safari roads, making it hard to spot during a typical visit to Udawalawe.
Chance to see: Low
Eurasian Hoopoe
The Eurasian hoopoe (Upupa epops) is a highly distinctive bird with its cinnamon color, black and white wings, tall erectile crest, and long, curved bill. Its characteristic soft “oop-oop-oop” call is often heard before the bird is seen. Found across many parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, they can be seen foraging in open areas of Udawalawe.
Chance to see: Medium
Conclusion
While elephants are the main attraction, a safari in Udawalawe National Park offers the opportunity to see a remarkable diversity of wildlife. From large mammals and reptiles to numerous bird species and smaller creatures, the park’s ecosystem supports a rich array of life. The animals listed above represent some of the most commonly sighted, but the park is home to many others, ensuring each visit holds the potential for exciting discoveries.
See also:
Entrance fee
How to get to Udawalawe Park
