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Flora And Fauna of Sri Lanka
The abundance of Sri Lanka's bird life makes it an ornithologist's paradise. Of the recorded 431 species, 251 are resident and no less than 21 are endemic to the island. Of the 242 known species of butterflies, most are found in the regions of the lower foothills (up to 910 m). A few (six species) can be glimpsed above 1210 m.
Of the 86 species of mammals, the pride of place goes to the majestic elephant. Other mammals include the sloth bear, the protected dugong, the wild boar, the porcupine and monkeys, especially the gray langur, which is common throughout the island. Of special interest is the endemic purple-faced leaf monkey, found in the higher hill regions. The island abounds in reptiles of which 75 are endemic. Of the two endemic species of crocodile, the commonest is the marsh crocodile. The beautiful star tortoise is the only land tortoise. Besides, there are five species of turtles, all protected by law. Of the 83 species of snakes, only five are lethal, these being cobra, Russell's viper, Indian krait, Ceylon krait, and the saw-scaled viper.
The diversified climate allows for trees, tropical as well as temperate. The luxuriant undergrowth and tall majestic trees of the wet-zone tropical forests contrast with the arid scrubland and tall palms of the north and east. In the hills, vegetation varies from the almost treeless patanas-Moon Plains, Elk Plains, etc.-to the dark rhododendron forests, wreathed with the protected sphagnum moss, to the gorse covered Horton Plains. From March to May numerous flowering trees such as the fiery Poinciana regia, the white Mesua ferrea, and the cherry blossom-like tabebuia burst into bloom. Flowering orchids include endemic varieties such as the protected daffodil and wesak orchids.
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