And another last day :(

Now it's time to say a fond adieu to Sri Lanka.

I can't wait to come back - I found my little paradise here and I never knew it existed in this wonderful country.

I had no idea that there were opportunities to see so many animals and birds, I'd never looked into it of course.  But still…  I was amazed to see a leopard, lots of monitors, both land and water, so many muggers, so many elephants, even a gorgeous tusker who came so close to us.  So many birds, storks, herons, eagles, little birds, big birds and those pesky peahens by the millions (or so it seemed!).  They're not really pesky, but they are so common - and so noisy!

I met heaps of wonderful people here.  I also had no idea that there are so many people so passionate about keeping the environment safe and well for the creatures that live here.  The work they do is incredible and given the circumstances that they fight against, they really are phenomenal!

I would love to come back very soon and bring people who I know would love it here also.
Thanks Sri Lanka!

Crocodiles et al

Yesterday I attended a vet workshop held at National Zoological Gardens in Colombo.  It was held in conjunction with the Crocodile Specialist Meeting (CSG) being held just outside of Colombo in Negombo.

I was asked to light the traditional lamp as a representative of the delegates.  Also asked were the director of the zoo, chief organiser of the CSG meeting, director of Madras Croc Bank, the 2 vets presenting the workshop etc.  I felt very special!  Me, of all the people attending, probably the least experienced and least known.  It sure is all about who you know…

The traditional lamp

After a presentation by a Brazilian vet, we had lunch then I sneaked out and explored the zoo.

A big cat snoozing - just like a small cat

Lots of animals and some in less then suitable enclosures, but in general (and considering we're in South East Asia) this zoo is amazing.  It is a lush and well cared for piece of land right in the middle of a big city.  Several of the exhibits were well above expected standards and some western zoo's could learn a thing or two from here I am sure.

And a small cat thinking it's a big cat...