VILLUS
Villus are grasslands which are associated essentially with abandoned irrigation tanks and waterholes of the dry zone, amidst Moist Deciduous Forests. They are also described as areas of natural water bodies, which form as a result of depression of soil over limestone, and percolation from underneath. These natural water bodies are found extensively in Wilpattu National Park.

Characteristically, these water bodies are surrounded by grasses and fords, with the occasional, isolated Palu (Manilkara hexandra) trees surrounding them. Villus provide water to several faunal species, particularly in the dry season. Interestingly, as these villus have no inlet or outlet, there is no fish fauna. The grasslands also serve as areas, which are grazed heavily by hoofed mammals in the dry season.

KEY FOR VILLUS

1. Eurasian Spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia)
2. Asian Openbill (Anastomus oscitans)
3. Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea)
4. Painted Stork (Mycteria leucocephala)
5. Lesser Adjutant (Leptoptilos javanicus)
6. Black-headed libis (Threskiornis melanocephalus)
7. Wild Buffalo (Bubalus bubalas)
8. Red-wattled Lapwing (Vanellus indicus)
9. Grasses and Fords
10. Palu (Manilkara hexandra)
11. Spotted Deer (Axis axis)
12. Mugger/Marsh Crocodile (Crocodylus palustris)

VILLUS-Wilpattu National Park. Information from Forest Department Coordinated by Duminda Sanjeewa Balasooriya


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