Grasslands, fresh water & marine wetlands, and sandy beaches, possesses a
large number of important plant species and smaller animals. Kumbukkan Oya in the North East and Menik Ganga and tributaries on the West, flow through
the Park providing a source of water to the animals even during the driest months of the
year.
Yala plays a very significant role in conservation of a large number of flora and fauna in
the country. Historical and religious sites such as Kataragama, Sithulpahuwa and Magul Maha
Vihara and many archaeologically important places add additional significance to the area. Yala West (Ruhuna) National Park is well recognized as one of the best parks in the world
to observe and photograph Leopards. The park covers an area of over 100,000 hectares and
is divided into five blocks.
It is possible to take full day jeep safaris or to split your day into morning and afternoon
drives. Your best chance to see a Leopard is generally early in the morning and then again
at dusk. You can stay until just after dark inside the park, thus maximizing your chances
of a Leopard encounter. The male Leopards in Yala are very confident and are often seen
walking the tracks during the day. Young males in particular seem to have no fear of the
jeep, which can lead to some excellent photographic opportunities. There are similarities
between Yala and the best National Parks in India for photographing Tigers, in both cases
the big Cats have become used to the jeeps thus enabling us to enjoy a privileged view of
these magnificent animals.
There is also a substantial Elephant population along with Spotted Deer, Sambar, Wild
Buffalo, Sloth Bear, Jackal, Mongoose, Pangolins and Crocodiles. The bird life comprises
over 120 species, and ranges from Lesser Flamingos to Paradise Flycatchers, Crested Hawk
Eagles, and Black Bitterns. Outside of the park are several other fascinating birding
locations, including the ancient hermitage of Sithulpahuwa, Debarawewa wetland and
Palatupana saltpans. The coastline forms a major nesting ground for marine turtles.
The drier season falls between May and August and the park closes for a short time during
September and October. |
|
