subject: Visit Sri Lankas Largest Collection Of Exotic Wildlife At Dehiwela Zoo [print this page] Colombo is less of a prime tourist attraction for foreigners than its tea-carpeted hills or golden coastal belt, being more integral to the completion of the Sri Lankan travel experience. However, the Dehiwela Zoo is one of the national landmarks which locals all over the nation feel almost duty-bound to visit at least once in their lifetimes. As such, foreign tourists would also do well to tear their attentions away from the farer-flung promises of sea and surf and drive a mere 6 miles away from the capital city to investigate the claim to fame asserted by this favourite local amusement.
It is not known by many that the Dehiwela Zoo is one of the oldest animal parks in Asia, having been founded by a private German company and then being taken over by the government well before the first stirrings of the Second World War. It still remains one of the finest, known not only for its varied collections of exotic and endangered animals but also its high standards of care and feeding, and the emphasis placed on animal conservation and education.
The zoo itself is a vast complex, with paved walkways sheltered by a high canopy of green that runs through beautifully landscaped environs designed to mimic the creatures original habitats as closely as possible. The principle draw of the zoo is unarguably the Elephant Circus, where a dozen of these majestic animals perform adorable stunts and dances for their delighted audiences. Other highlights include the reptile house where whip-thin adders and coiled anacondas gaze lazily at awed spectators from behind glass enclosures; the marine exhibit or Mini Medura where over 500 species of vibrant underwater life can be found; the small but picturesque butterfly park and the nocturnal house, where the creatures of the night hold court. Most visitors are equally impressed with the larger mammals, however. Admittedly the charms of haughty lions and tigers, massive rhinos and bears and the awe-inspiring giraffes are tough to contest however the sea lion show manages to hold its own!
The sights of interest are not restricted to fauna alone; in terms of flora too, there is variety to be found as the artificial forest patches are rich in rare and exotic plant life, especially medicinal ones. The zoo also conducts an animal breeding program which is dedicated to preserving endangered species both endemic and foreign.
If this exhibition of exotic wildlife piques your interest, it is suggested that you head on over to Truly Sri Lanka before proceeding. This website provides up-to-date information about all aspects related to Sri Lanka travel, providing you with a host of useful tips on how to optimize your Sri Lanka holiday.
