Unique bio-diversity found in Samanala Wewa

Nethali Struys

Vertebrate include

* 23 species of amphibians
* 208 species of birds
* 39 species of fish
*44 species of mammals
* 76 species of reptiles

Research show that the proposed Samanala Wewa National park straddling Uva and Sabaragamuwa province is home to unique biodiversity features which have not been documented before, said Sri Lanka Green Movement spokesman Bandu Ranga Kariyawasam.

According to him two years of field visits and research have uncovered these features.

A total of 390 species of vertebrate fauna were recorded in the locality, of which 59 are endemic.

The vertebrate include 23 species of amphibians, 208 species of birds, 39 species of fish, 44 species of mammals and 76 species of reptiles.

The proposed National Park is of high conservation value for birds, having the highest species diversity than the Bundala National Park.