Kaudulla national park

Kaudulla National Park is a protected area located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. The park spans an area of approximately 6656 hectares and is an important habitat for many species of animals, birds, and plants. Kaudulla National Park is known for its elephant population, which is one of the largest in Sri Lanka.

The park is home to a variety of animals, including Sri Lankan sambar deer, Sri Lankan axis deer, wild boar, sloth bear, and water buffalo. It is also a popular birdwatching destination, with over 160 species of birds recorded in the park. Some of the most commonly seen birds include the painted stork, open-bill stork, and spot-billed pelican.

The environment of Kaudulla National Park is diverse, with dry evergreen forests, grasslands, and wetlands. The park is situated around the Kaudulla tank, a man-made reservoir that was built by King Mahasen in the 3rd century AD. The tank is an important source of water for the wildlife in the park, especially during the dry season.

The history of Kaudulla National Park dates back to the ancient kingdoms of Sri Lanka, where the area was used for hunting and farming. However, in the late 20th century, the government of Sri Lanka recognized the ecological importance of the area and declared it a protected area.