Hiyare Sanctuary

Hiyare Sanctuary The reservoir was established in 1919 and the forest acts as its catchment. This centre is facilitated by Galle Municipal Council.

Hiyare rainforest bordered by the Hiyare reservoir is a secondary lowland rainforest with a high diversity and endemism of species that spans over 600 acres in Galle district. Mahadola, which is a major stream that enriches the river, also originates from here. The Wildlife Conservation Society of Galle runs a field centre at this premises in order to conduct educational programmes, conservations

and researches. The Animal Rescue Programme is one of the major activities carried out under the Biodiversity Conservation Effort at Hiyare which provide medical care for injured wild animals, rehabilitate them and then release back into the wild. Moreover those animals are further observed closely after releasing, to confirm that they have settled in suitably. The vegetation of the forest is dominated by species such as Hora (Dipterocarpuszeylanicus), Bu - hora ,(Dipterocarpushispidus), Dorana (Dipterocarpusglandulosus), Pini - baru (Hopeajucunda), Kekuna (Canariumzeylanicum), Godapara (Dilleniaretusa), Thiniya ( Doonacongestiflora ), Uru - honda (Kurrimiaceylanica) and Beraliya - dun (Shoreadyeri). The place is a magnificent destination for bird watching along with 118 bird species of which 13 species are identified as endemic, namely Sri Lankan Spurfowl, Brown-capped Babbler, Spot-winged Thrush, Black-capped Bulbul, Grey Hornbill and Sri Lankan Hanging Parrot. Furthermore 33 Freshwater fish species, 78 Butterfly species, 55 Dragonfly species, 34 Reptile species, 18 Amphibian species, 28 Land snail species and 29 Mammal species are recorded within the stretches of Hiyare rainforest. Considerable amount out of above figures is recognized as endemic to the island. The Hog Deer is one of the distinctive attractions of this place. You could make your leisure time contented, amidst this wildlife paradise by the means of trekking through the rainforest and experiencing a marvelous boat ride. The forest is open daily 9am – 4pmall year around, expecting your visit.

11/09/2017

Four new species of Devario discovered in Sri Lanka

28/03/2017

Another successful rescue mission...

06/02/2013

Animal Rescue & rehabilitation Program for Wild animals was totally funded by Nation Trust Bank

18/01/2013
02/01/2013

At present 91 species of Mammals are recorded in Sri Lanka of which 9 (9.89%) species are categories as critically endangered in Sri Lanka (IUCN & MoNER 2007). Out of these Hog deer is one of the mammal species having a restricted area of occupancy. Currently the distribution of Hog Deer is restricted to few locations in Galle and Kalutara Districts (WCSG 2008). According to WCSG survey 2008, the main Course of population decline of Hog Deer happens due to habitats loss. This is mainly due to clearing natural vegetation for the plantation like cinnamon, tea and rubber. Even the proposed southern high way seems to be a major threat for Hog Deer populations. Wildlife Conservation Society Galle (WCSG) with the collaboration of the Department of Wildlife has started a conservation program for the Hog Deer. The aim of this program is to rescue and rehabilitate, injured or domesticated Hog Deer and to release them to a safe a location and to monitor released population.

29/11/2012

We specialize in curating unforgettable wildlife experiences across Sri Lanka. Our expertise lies in crafting bespoke Butterfly, Birding, and Wildlife Tours, designed to immerse you in the natural beauty and biodiversity of this tropical paradise.

15/04/2012
12/03/2012

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Hiyare

Opening Hours

Monday 09:00 - 17:30
Tuesday 09:00 - 17:30
Wednesday 09:00 - 17:30
Thursday 09:00 - 17:30
Friday 09:00 - 17:30
Saturday 09:00 - 17:30
Sunday 09:00 - 17:30

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