Muthurajawela Wetlands in Sri Lanka| Dutch Canal to Negombo Lagoon

#wetland #birdwatching #dutchcanal #visitsrilanka Muthurajawela wetlands in Sri Lanka is a coastal wetland with biodiverse eco system. It can be considered as the best urban wetland in the world. It was declared a sanctuary in 1996 due to the availability of wide range of fauna and flora and endemic bird species. It is said the about 192 species of flora , 209 species of faun and 102 species of birds. Muthurajawela wetland has a mangrove forest which helps to protect coastline from erosion.The dominant mangrove species found here include Rhizophora mucronata, Avicennia marina, and Bruguiera cylindrica. The mangrove roots serve as nurseries for fish and provide feeding grounds for various aquatic animals, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the area. Lot of bird watchers and researchers who are interested in bird life visit Muthurajawela marshes throughout the year to spot endemic birds and migrant birds. Lots of migrant birds such as sandpipers, plovers, and terns can be spotted during September to March. About 80 species of endemic birds including kingfishers, purple herons and brahminy kites have been spotted in the swamp. Some of the species are indigenous to the swamp. Variety of beautiful butterflies are also visible in the area. Not only the birds Muthurajawela wetlands are also home to other wildlife species, including water monitors, crocodiles, snakes, and amphibians. Visitors can catch many of these creatures during the guided boat tour organised by the “Muthurajawela Visitor Center” located in Pamunugama , Sri Lanka. This wetland is a attraction for tourists interested in eco tourism and nature. Once Sri Lankan government decided to dump garbage in the Muthurajawela area, but luckily it was stopped after many requests from environmental lovers. You can arrange a 2 hours boat ride along Hamilton canal to Negombo lagoon to witness this “Swamp of Royal Treasure” . It is also called “Supreme field of Pearls” as it was used for rice cultivation a long time ago and the rice harvest in the area looked like pearls. It is supposed to have originated 7000 years ago. The center has a small museum with some educational facts for any nature enthusiasts. Recommended time to enjoy the boat ride is mornings or evening after 3 pm. The boat ride is not expensive and one boat can accommodate about 5 - 6 people. Muthurajawela marshes are located closer to the Katunayake airport and center of Colombo. Hence a tourist can visit Muthurajawela on his way to hotel or on the way back to the airport. This wetland is located closer to an industrial zone as well. Contact number of the Muthurajawela visitor center is +94114030150 for a booking.