Paradise just 30 mins away... Thalangama Lake Birdlife
- Nirmal Kumarasiri
- Jun 24, 2021
- 2 min read
Updated: 8 hours ago
The COVID lockdown was driving many of us—including myself—a little stir-crazy, especially with our cameras gathering dust and no opportunity to get out and capture some wildlife photography. For nature enthusiasts and photographers in Colombo, Thalangama Lake became a true sanctuary. Situated on the outskirts of the city, it’s a magical spot brimming with beautiful birdlife. These are some of my favourite captures taken in and around the lake during two tranquil mornings in May and June 2021, shortly after the lockdown restrictions were lifted.
An aerial view via Google Maps shows how this beautiful body of water is trapped in the urban jungle.
Its banks are lined with everything from grand mansions to modest village homes, belonging to families who have lived here for generations. Just a 30-minute drive from anywhere in Colombo, Thalangama Lake is easily accessible via several routes. I’ve marked a few key spots where birdwatchers can observe a wide variety of species, many of which have adapted remarkably well to these human-altered habitats.
The main body of water and surrounding ponds are home to a multitude of aquatic birds such as Spot-billed Pelicans, Cormorants, Oriental Darters, Little Grebes, Lesser Whistling-Ducks, White-breasted Waterhens and many more.
I managed to capture an interesting event sequence where a Spot-billed Pelican was darting and lunging to catch fish. Its speed and stealth were amazing.
Aquatic specialists are a common sight among the dense reeds that line the waterways. One of the joys of visiting Thalangama is that these birds have become quite accustomed to human presence, making it easier to capture stunning photographs without disturbing them. Watching Plain Prinias dart and flit through the reeds is a particular delight—an irresistible subject for any wildlife photographer.
I had a beautiful encounter with a Cattle Egret who was in magnificent breeding plumage, standing on a dead tree against the blue sky.
Another frequently sighted bird family in the area—and one of my personal favourites to photograph—is the Kingfishers. These specialist hunters are commonly seen here and often make for fantastic photographic subjects. During both mornings, I was fortunate to spot White-throated Kingfishers and Stork-billed Kingfishers. I was a little surprised not to encounter any Common Kingfishers, though I’m quite certain they’re around as well.
The toss, catch and swallow sequence of a dragonfly by a White-throated Kingfisher is a special capture.
There are plenty of other land-dwellers who are around this oasis. Although quite common in urban areas, they provide an opportunity to take some good photographs.
Other land dwellers who can be seen quite often (although not photographed) include White-browed Bulbul, Common Tailorbird, Brown-headed Barbet, Black-hooded Oriole, Asian Koel, Greater Coucal, Yellow-billed Babbler, Spotted Dove, Green Imperial Pigeon and of course the House Crows.
All in all, this hidden oasis nestled within the urban sprawl is a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life—and the perfect place to flex your photography muscles. It’s all the more reason to cherish and protect this precious habitat, ensuring its waterways remain clean and thriving. So, if you plan to retreat to this little paradise, remember to take only memories and photographs with you—and leave nothing but footprints behind.
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