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Lunugamvehera National Park: A Vital Wildlife Haven in Sri Lanka
Introduction Lunugamvehera National Park, located 261 km (162 miles) southwest of Colombo, Sri Lanka, was declared in 1995 with the primary goal of protecting the catchment area of the Lunugamvehera reservoir and preserving the rich wildlife of the region. The park serves as an important habitat for water birds, Sri Lankan elephants, and many other species. It also acts as a wildlife corridor, allowing elephants to migrate between the renowned Yala National Park and Udawalawe National Park. Visitors to this unique park can enjoy its biodiversity and stunning landscapes, including grasslands, forests, and wetlands.
Physical Features of Lunugamvehera National Park Lunugamvehera National Park is located in Sri Lanka’s Dry Zone, which makes the park prone to annual droughts, though it is somewhat relieved by the southwestern monsoon. The park’s elevation is 91 meters (299 feet), and it spans a total area of 23,498 hectares. Of this, 14 percent (3,283 hectares) is covered by the Lunugamvehera reservoir, with an additional 50 hectares dedicated to smaller reservoirs. The park’s annual rainfall averages 1,000 mm (39 inches), with a decrease in rainfall from north to south and from west to east across the park.
The mean annual temperature in Lunugamvehera is around 30°C (86°F), making it a warm, semi-arid environment with diverse flora and fauna.
Flora of Lunugamvehera National Park Lunugamvehera is home to a mix of scrubland, grassland, and forested areas, creating several layers of vegetation. Common plant species include Drypetes sepiaria, Manilkara hexandra, Schleichera oleosa, Lannea coromandelica, Diospyros ovalifolia, and Polyalthia korinti. Grasslands in the park contain species like Chloris montana, Cynodon dactylon, and Panicum maximum, alongside exotic plants such as Lantana camara and Mimosa pudica. The park also features teak and eucalyptus plantations, which have become common in certain areas.
Fauna of Lunugamvehera National Park Lunugamvehera is rich in biodiversity, with 21 species of fish, 12 amphibians, 33 reptile species, 183 bird species, and 43 mammal species recorded.
The park is a sanctuary for Sri Lankan elephants, with herds frequently observed in the area. Other notable mammals include Sri Lankan sambar deer, wild boar, Sri Lankan spotted chevrotain, grizzled giant squirrel, Sri Lankan axis deer, and the Asian palm civet.
Endemic amphibians such as Bufo atukoralei and Fejervarya pulla are found in the park’s wetlands.
The park’s waterways are home to reptiles like the mugger crocodile, while other land-dwelling reptiles include various species of skinks and geckos.
Lunugamvehera is a haven for birdwatching, with water birds like the grey heron, black-headed ibis, Asian openbill, painted stork, and spot-billed pelican frequently spotted around the park’s reservoirs and wetlands.
Elephant Migration Corridor One of the park’s significant roles is serving as a vital elephant migration corridor. Elephants regularly travel between Lunugamvehera National Park, Yala National Park, and Udawalawe National Park. The park’s habitat allows elephants to move safely between these protected areas in search of food, water, and breeding opportunities.
Conservation Efforts in Lunugamvehera National Park Lunugamvehera National Park is part of Sri Lanka’s protected areas network, and it plays a crucial role in the conservation of both wildlife and water resources. However, there have been reports of translocated elephants dying due to starvation, highlighting the challenges faced in wildlife management. The park is also home to the tufted gray langur, which can be found in the wild.
Efforts are underway to maintain the park’s delicate ecosystem, protect wildlife corridors, and mitigate human-wildlife conflict, especially with elephants.
Visitor Information Lunugamvehera National Park, once closed due to the Sri Lankan Civil War, is now open to the public. Visitors can enjoy safaris and observe the diverse wildlife in their natural habitats. The park is particularly popular with birdwatchers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those interested in exploring Sri Lanka’s Dry Zone ecosystems.
Conclusion Lunugamvehera National Park offers a unique opportunity to experience Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife in an expansive and protected environment. From elephants and water buffalo to exotic birds and amphibians, the park is a sanctuary for numerous species. It is also a crucial ecological region, serving as a water source for surrounding areas, and plays an essential role in maintaining the ecological balance of Sri Lanka’s southern ecosystems. Whether you are a nature lover, a wildlife photographer, or a conservationist, Lunugamvehera National Park promises an unforgettable experience.