Sri Lanka Day 12 - Pannagamuwa Wetlands and Yala

After a hectic day we had an easier start with a trip to the Pannagamuwa wetlands after a more leisurely breakfast at the hotel.

The wetlands were great, with a chance to have a wander along, pottering about to see what we could find.   With birds on the water being easier to spot, we were soon looking at dragonflies and damselflies which vied with butterflies for our attention. 

The Wetlands

Cotton pygmy-goose was a new addition to my personal list and one I was keen to see.  What a lovely bird to see.   There were huge numbers of Indian Pond Heron and many Egret in this area.

Purple Swamphen

Our local guide heard a Jungle Owlet call in a nearby garden and after mimicking the sound, we had a reply.   After checking with the owner, we were all in the front garden checking the palm trees which were ideal habitat.   Two Owlets were seen, they chased around giving us good (if rather speedy) views, until one settled on a branch and gave us his best stare.

Another stunning view was White-naped Woodpecker - also on most people's wish list.   We spent ages in this garden.   There were some delightful slim yellow and green damselflies - Yellow Wagtail.   Along with several other insects which proved rather hard to photograph and impossible to identify.

The names of some of the Odonata are brilliant with Sombre Lieutenant, Pied Parasol, Asian Pintail, Oriental Scarlet and Orange-winged Groundling and many, many others.

Plain Tiger Butterfly (with Indian Common Crow behind)

As we wandered along we came across some beautiful rice paddy fields, so picturesque and typical of this part of the world.

Soon it was time for us to go back for our Rice and Curry lunch, but not before we had a stop along the road to see a tree which was absolutely covered in roosting Indian Flying Fox.   

Indian Flying Fox Roost (just a few of those present)

In the afternoon we were back to Yala in the jeep.   Unfortunately we arrived at the same time as a coach full of tourists so it took some time to both gain entry, and also to get past them all.   Once the queue had dispersed we found some quieter routes and once again enjoyed the natural delights of the park. 

After a last jeep drive we were back once more to the hotel and then yet another delicious curry for dinner.

An early night was in order after another full day, and we were moving off the next morning.