ROLE OF AVIAN BIODIVERSITY IN ENHANCING ECOTOURISM INITIATIVES IN ANURADHAPURA SRI LANKA

Abstract

Abstract: Avian biodiversity and bird watching play key roles in enhancing ecotour- ism initiatives in Sri Lanka. This study investigated the significance of largely unex- plored avian richness as an ecotourism attraction, based on four large tanks in Anura- dhapura district, which celebrate for their historical and cultural heritage, but present untapped potential for ecotourism. Continuous field surveys were carried out in the tanks: Nuwara Wewa, Abhaya Wewa, Bulankulama, and Tisa Wewa, 18 years from 2000 to 2018. The data collection is composed with species composition, abundance, and habitat utilization. A total of 181 avian species from 72 families were recorded, including both migratory and resident species. Some of the prominent species were Lesser Whistling-duck (Dendrocygna javanica), Black-headed Ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus), Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis), and Rose-ringed Parakeet (Psittacula krameri). A comparison of avian diversity among tanks was carried out using geospa- tial analysis techniques in GIS. The study emphasizes the diversity of habitat prefer- ences of avian species including reedbeds, submerged macrophytes, open water, and terrestrial environments etc. A comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of these habitats are crucial for the development of bird watching facilities ensuring that visi- tors can appreciate avian diversity while preserving their habitats. Involvement of lo- cal community in habitat restoration like invasive species removal, native plant prop- agation, and soil conservation techniques through proper education, raising awareness, monitoring and responsible ecotourism practices are recommended to en- sure long-term sustainability of ecotourism management and avian biodiversity con- servation in the region. The coexistence of historical heritage and avian biodiversity enhances the potential for a unique ecotourism destination in Anuradhapura district benefiting the local economy and raising awareness of avian conservation's im- portance in Sri Lanka