Photographer: David Hoddinott   Destination: Sri Lanka

 

The parrots of Asia are a diverse and often colourful group, ranging from widespread and familiar species to highly localised endemics restricted to small areas of forest. In Sri Lanka, this diversity is well represented, with several species occurring across the island’s varied habitats, from lowland rainforest to the central highlands. Among these, a few stand out not only for their appearance but also for their character and behaviour, and none more so than the Sri Lanka Hanging Parrot.

 

This small, bright green parrot is one of the island’s most distinctive birds. Often seen in pairs or small groups, it moves quietly through the canopy, feeding on fruit, flowers and buds. Its compact shape and short tail give it a unique silhouette in flight, and when perched it can be surprisingly easy to overlook despite its vivid colour. Like other hanging parrots, it is known for its habit of roosting upside down, adding to its appeal and making it a memorable species to encounter in the field.

 

This month we feature the Sri Lanka Hanging Parrot, an endemic species found throughout much of the island. It is regularly encountered in forest edge, gardens and wooded areas, often giving itself away with soft calls as it moves between feeding sites. While not always easy to photograph in dense foliage, patient observation can provide excellent views, especially where flowering or fruiting trees attract feeding birds.
Sri Lanka is a friendly island nation with a wide range of habitats packed into a relatively small area. From the central highlands to the lowland rainforests, birding is consistent and productive, and it is one of the few places where it is possible to see all of the country’s endemics on a single well-planned trip. Species such as Serendib Scops Owl, Sri Lanka Blue Magpie, Red-faced Malkoha and Sri Lanka Junglefowl are among the highlights, alongside a wide range of other forest and wetland birds.

 

The island also offers excellent wildlife viewing beyond birds. National parks such as Yala and Uda Walawe hold good populations of Elephant, and Leopard is a realistic possibility, along with a range of other mammals. Combined with varied scenery, good infrastructure and a long history of nature tourism, Sri Lanka remains one of the most rewarding birding destinations in Asia.