Birding while working in Gampaha

As the second most populous district in Sri Lanka, Gampaha is not typically regarded as a hotspot for birdwatching. Continuous human activity and the widespread clearing of natural habitats have driven much of the wildlife away. Yet, remarkably, some specialist species continue to survive—and even thrive—in these altered landscapes. During my time managing Wet Water Resort, I was based near Gampaha city for over two years. Nestled amidst waterways, paddy fields, and an abundance of fruit-bearing trees, the resort turned out to be a surprising little oasis for birds. This article is a collection of photographs captured during my off-hours—moments stolen between work and daily routines—celebrating the unexpected beauty of birdlife in Gampaha. #gampaha #birdsingampaha #wetwateresort

Located just a few kilometres away from the main city of Gampaha, Wet Water Resort provides an escape from the buzzing city and is an area full of trees and waterways.

Its location surrounded by paddy fields and waterways create a good habitat specially for water birds. The myriad of fruit trees attract birds and insects.

With all the water surrounding the place, Kingfishers are a constant sight.

It’s also something of a paradise for herons. Indian Pond Herons and Striated Herons are a regular sight, often seen stalking the edges of the water in their usual stealthy manner. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the elusive Black Bittern. Meanwhile, the surrounding marshlands frequently host both Purple Herons and Grey Herons, their tall, elegant forms a familiar presence in these wetlands.

Other water birds such as cormorants, white-breasted waterhens, and purple swamphens are frequent visitors to the area. Interestingly, there’s a small waterhole situated right beside the bustling main road—a surprisingly productive spot for observing many of these species. For those with the patience to wait quietly, rarer water birds like the greater painted-snipe may also reveal themselves. Lesser whistling-ducks often make graceful landings at this waterhole, though capturing a good photograph can be challenging, as they remain highly alert and wary of human presence.

Other regular visitors include Asian Koels, Black-hooded Orioles, Brown-headed Barbets, and White-bellied Drongos. The Common Myna, Oriental Magpie-Robin, and Yellow-billed Babblers are so ubiquitous they’re hardly worth mentioning—they seem to be everywhere. On rarer occasions, I’ve had the pleasure of spotting Asian Paradise-Flycatchers, Brown Shrikes, Black-headed Cuckooshrikes, various species of woodpeckers, and even the majestic Green Imperial Pigeon. During the migratory season, Forest Wagtails also make frequent appearances, adding to the vibrant mix. And with all this bird activity, it’s no surprise that birds of prey are never too far behind, often seen circling above or perched in silent watch.

As if all these birding activity is not enough, you will surely run in to domestic ducks also who call Wet Water Resort home.