How many dragonfly species are found in Sri Lanka?

129 species of dragonfly have been recorded in Sri Lanka, of which 56 are endemic — found nowhere else in the world. This exceptionally high rate of endemism reflects the island's long isolation from the Indian mainland and its diverse range of freshwater habitats.

Where is the best place to see dragonflies in Sri Lanka?

Sinharaja Forest Reserve in the wet zone lowlands is the single richest site for endemic species, particularly along clear forest streams. The Kitulgala river area, Horton Plains plateau, Madu Ganga wetlands, and the tank margins around Udawalawe are also highly productive, each offering a different set of species.

What time of year is best for dragonfly watching in Sri Lanka?

The wet zone sites are most active during the inter-monsoon periods of March to April and October to November. Dry zone sites are best from May through September. Dragonfly activity occurs year-round, so the choice of timing is mainly about matching the right season to the right region.

Do I need a specialist guide for dragonfly watching in Sri Lanka?

A specialist naturalist guide is strongly recommended, especially if you want to identify endemic species reliably. Many endemics are subtle in appearance and require knowledge of behaviour and habitat preference to find. A guide also helps navigate to productive stream locations that are not on standard tourist routes.

Can I combine dragonfly watching with other wildlife activities in Sri Lanka?

Yes — the habitats that support high dragonfly diversity are also excellent for endemic birds, reptiles, and butterflies. Many itineraries combine dragonfly watching with birdwatching walks in rainforest, wildlife drives in national parks, and visits to coastal wetlands, making efficient use of travel time between sites.

What field guide should I use for dragonflies in Sri Lanka?

The standard reference is Dragonflies of Sri Lanka by Matjaž Bedjanič, Karen Conniff, and Nerina Šalamun. It covers all recorded species with identification plates and habitat notes. It is advisable to source this before departing for Sri Lanka as availability in-country can be limited.

Are there leeches in the dragonfly watching sites in Sri Lanka?

Land leeches are common in the wet-zone rainforest habitats, particularly after rain. They are not dangerous but can be a nuisance. Light-coloured long-sleeved clothing and leech socks reduce contact significantly, and most experienced guides carry salt or repellent as a precaution.

Dragonfly Watching — Lakpura®

The tropical island paradise of Sri Lanka is astonishingly rich in wildlife and contains a wide variety of habitats ranging from misty highland forests and lush rainforest to arid, scrub-filled plains and an abundance of fresh water lakes. Over a tenth of the land mass is designated as protected areas for wildlife and the principal reserves are among the best in Asia. Although geographically close to India the zoology of the island displays many affinities to Indonesia and there is a marked degree of endemism, particularly in the remaining tracts of lowland forest to the south of the island where many of the birds, plants and insects are unique to Sri Lanka. Over 27 species of endemic birds is a high total for a country only a little more than a quarter the size of the United Kingdom, and the large number of endemic insects, plants, trees and reptiles is further evidence of the island’s long isolation from the mainland.

129 species of dragonfly have been identified and 56 of those are endemic to the island – and amazing degree of endemism! The aim of this tour is to visit some of the very best areas to observe them and identify the species encountered. In the course of our excursions we are sure to see a variety of other wildlife, but the focus will be very much on the dragonflies.