Sri Lanka’s abundant bird-life makes the island a true Ornithologist's paradise.  Of the 427 recorded species, 250 are resident and 34 are endemic to the country.  With such a variety of environments ranging from wet to dry zone, forest to jungle, and hill country to low lands, there's no end to the fascinating locations in which to spot many of these beautiful birds.  Most of the endemic birds (such as the Sri Lankan grackle) are restricted to the wet zone, while birds such as the Sri Lanka whistling thrush and the yellow-eared bulbul reside in the hill country.  Others, like the brilliantly plumaged jungle fowl, the striking Red-Faced Malkoha and the shy brown-capped babbler can be found in forests and sanctuaries throughout the island. Among the best areas for sighting these birds are the Sinharaja Rainforest and Adam's Peak Wilderness sanctuary.

About 70 sanctuaries and National Parks spread all over the country provides opportunity to the keen birders to witness the all 427 species of birds.  Kalametiya, Bundala & Kumana are some hotspots for dry zone and migrant birds while Horton Plains, Kithulgala and Nuwara Eliya are the best locations for highland varieties.  Muthurajawela, Thalangama & Anavilundawa marshes and Bodhinagala forest Reserve are some places where you can view some lowland species.