On 15th March 2026, the Urban Biodiversity Alliance – Sri Lanka (UBASL) had the honor of contributing to a meaningful environmental education program organized for the students and parents of the Young Zoologists’ Association of Sri Lanka (YZA) at the ecologically rich Diyagama Forest.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Mr. Shantha Jayaweera, Junior Instructor of the Young Zoologists’ Association, for inviting UBASL to be part of this valuable educational initiative.
The day featured two engaging field sessions.
Bird Watching Session Conducted by Mr. Amila Salgado, this session allowed participants to observe a rich variety of bird species in their natural habitat. Highlights included the Green Imperial Pigeon, Sri Lanka Green Pigeon, Black Bittern, Blue-tailed Bee-eater, Crimson-fronted Barbet, and a flock of Rosy Starlings. Participants gained valuable insights into avifaunal diversity and the critical role birds play in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Vegetation & Ecosystem Awareness Session Led by Mr. Shamil Ileperuma, this session explored the forest’s rich plant diversity, understory vegetation, mushrooms, and fungal communities. The session highlighted Diyagama Forest as a significant urban biodiversity hotspot and a vital lowland wet zone forest ecosystem, emphasizing its ecological importance and the need for its protection.
It was truly inspiring to witness the curiosity, enthusiasm, and engagement shown by the young participants and their families as they explored the forest. Their energy reinforced our belief that hands-on, field-based learning is essential for nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards.
At UBASL, we strongly believe that field studies and direct interaction with nature are crucial for building environmental awareness and creating future conservation leaders.
We warmly invite everyone to join hands in protecting precious ecosystems like the Diyagama Forest for future generations.