Wild camping and photographing the Ceylon Frogmouth in Makandawa
6 Answers from travellers
Makandawa is a strict forest reserve. You absolutely need a permit from the Forest Department to enter, and wild camping deep inside is heavily restricted without an official guide. The Ceylon Frogmouth roosts in dense vine tangles during the day. A local guide is essential to spot them, as they look exactly like dead leaves. As for leeches, yes, even in the dry season, the rainforest floor remains damp enough for them to be everywhere.
Bring leech socks and Dettol spray. The leeches in Kitulgala are aggressive and will easily climb right up your tripod legs while you are trying to frame a shot.
Also keep an eye out for the Serendib Scops Owl! It was discovered in that exact rainforest relatively recently and is a holy grail for bird photographers.
Good to know about the permits. Can we arrange the camping permit through the adventure sports lodges across the Kelani River.
Do not use a flash if you find a Frogmouth! They rely entirely on their camouflage to stay safe from predators. A sudden bright flash stresses them out terribly.
Yes, places like Borderlands or Rafters Retreat can organize the Forest Department permits and the experienced birding guides for you.
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