When do migratory birds arrive in Sri Lankan wetlands from Europe?

Migratory birds begin arriving in Sri Lankan wetlands from late August onwards with numbers building dramatically through September and October. The absolute peak diversity occurs between November and February when the island hosts around two hundred migratory species alongside approximately two hundred thirty resident species. This creates incredible biodiversity rarely matched anywhere else in South Asia. Major migratory highlights include greater flamingos, ruff, curlew sandpipers, little stints, marsh sandpipers, wood sandpipers, Caspian terns, whiskered terns, garganey ducks, northern pintails, and the incredibly rare pacific golden plover. Raptor enthusiasts can spot migratory species like the booted eagle, greater spotted eagle, eastern marsh harrier, and peregrine falcon hunting over the wetlands. Key wetland sites for migratory birds include Bundala National Park, Kumana National Park, Mannar Island and the adjacent Vankalai Sanctuary, Anawilundawa Sanctuary near Chilaw, and the Muthurajawela Marsh near Negombo. Each location offers different species compositions so dedicated birders often visit multiple sites during a single trip. The birds remain in Sri Lanka until around late March or early April when they begin their long return journey back to breeding grounds across Europe and Central Asia. By May most migratory species have departed leaving only the resident endemic and breeding species. For the best photography conditions visit during the early morning hours between six and nine when the light is soft and the birds are most active feeding. Bring powerful telephoto lenses of at least five hundred millimeters and consider hiring a local birding guide who knows the specific feeding grounds and nesting areas of rare species. Serious birders should also carry a field guide specific to Sri Lankan birds along with a good pair of binoculars rated at eight or ten power.