Green Isle – Bellanwila–Attidiya Wetland Sanctuary
Green Isle is a 40-acre island located within the Bellanwila–Attidiya Wetland Sanctuary on the southeastern outskirts of Colombo. Gazetted in 1990, the sanctuary is part of the upper catchment of the Bolgoda river basin and is home to over 150 bird species, 20 mammal species including Mousedeer, Otters, Fishing Cats, and Rusty Spotted Cats, as well as saltwater crocodiles and rock pythons.
However, decades of neglect and the unchecked spread of invasive alien species- primarily Annona glabra and Acacia, led to severe habitat degradation and the loss of native flora.
The Green Isle project was initiated in 2019 as part of the “Saving Nestor” initiative, aimed at creating a refuge for the critically endangered Purple-faced Leaf Monkey (Semnopithecus vetulus nestor), endemic to Sri Lanka’s western wet zone. The project has since evolved into a broader wetland restoration and species conservation effort under PLANT.
Over the past years, significant progress has been made. Two inland lakes were created, and more than 2,200 native and Nestor-friendly tree saplings have been planted along a restored nature trail. Each plant is tagged, inventoried, and monitored for growth. The site now supports a growing diversity of life, including migrant birds, butterflies, reptiles, and even crocodiles that have moved into the newly formed ponds. Green Isle is envisioned as a long-term refuge for endangered species and a model for urban wetland restoration. The project is now implemented by the WNPS PLANT and supported by the Department of Wildlife Conservation, with technical guidance from leading botanists and primatologists. The site remains open for research, education, and community participation, and is now being reactivated under PLANT to continue its mission of ecological recovery and coexistence.
