Wilpattu

Administrative Information

• Province: North Western Province & North Central Province (straddles the border)

• District: Puttalam District & Anuradhapura District

• Administrative Type: National Park (Managed by the Department of Wildlife Conservation)

• Protected Status: Designated as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1905 and elevated to a National Park in 1938.

Geographic Information

• Coordinates: 8.4382 N, 80.0069 E

• Elevation: 0 to - 152 meters (0 to 500 feet) above sea level

Wildlife Highlights

• The Sri Lankan Leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya): Wilpattu is one of the top places in the world to spot leopards. The park's top apex predator is frequently seen resting on the sandy tracks or stalking prey around the edges of the lakes.

• The Sri Lankan Sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus inornatus): A highly endangered and elusive mammal. Wilpattu is famous for its sloth bear sightings, particularly during the sweet Palu fruit season in June and July.

• The Sri Lankan Elephant (Elephas maximus maximus): Resident herds and solitary bulls roam the forest, frequently coming out to bathe, drink, and graze around the open plains of the major Villus.

• Avian Abundance (Birdlife): A paradise for birdwatchers, hosting both resident wetland birds and thousands of winter migrants. Iconic species include the Lesser Adjutant, Painted Stork, Sri Lanka Junglefowl, and the majestic White-bellied Sea Eagle.

• Reptiles and Aquatic Life: The park’s unique wetlands support a thriving population of Mugger Crocodiles, water monitors, and the endangered Indian Star Tortoise