Dehiwala Zoo, a sprawling sanctuary with lush trees, tranquil ponds, cages, and various enclosures, houses a captivating array of animals from around the world. This haven of wildlife attracts both children and adults alike, offering a chance to spend an entire day in the company of fascinating creatures. My first visit to the zoo, at the age of twelve, left an indelible mark on my memory. I vividly recall the mix of awe, wonder, fear, and excitement that washed over me as I stood just a few yards away from a fearsome and hungry-looking lion. The experience was unforgettable, and I relished every moment of that remarkable day.
One of the most captivating features of Dehiwala Zoo is its diverse collection of birds from various corners of the globe. As a young visitor, I found myself entranced by the beautiful songs, stunning colors, and impressive sizes of these winged creatures. The peacock, ostrich, and our native Ceylon junglefowl, known as the "salami hini" bird, particularly caught my attention and filled me with admiration.
Moving on, I found myself at the chimpanzee enclosure, where the primates were indulging in their morning meal. Observing their almost-humanlike behavior and imitative gestures was a delightful sight. The giraffe, with its towering height and peculiar long neck, was another captivating sight. It seemed almost surreal and unlike any other creature I had seen before. I learned from the keepers that giraffes are unique in that they are the only animals that do not make any vocal sounds.
Intriguing yet formidable, the lions and tigers were a sight to behold. Their powerful and majestic presence exuded an air of dominance, seemingly unafraid of any other animal except, perhaps, the wild elephant. I learned from the keeper that a single blow from the powerful paws of these big cats could shatter the bones of most other animals.
Moving to an open grassy patch, we encountered a group of deer. Though visually pleasing, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of sadness seeing these swift creatures confined to an enclosure. Adjacent to this, there were other varieties of deer, some hailing from South Africa. Their curious nature was evident as they approached us when we waved our cameras.
Amusement awaited us at the ape and monkey enclosures, where children gathered to watch their entertaining antics for hours. Their playful and sometimes pitiful behaviors, like begging for food, charmed the visitors. Some of the bolder monkeys would seize any offerings held out to them and dart away to their corner of the cage.
A peculiar sight awaited us at the camel enclosure, where the creature's unique physique left an impression. Its wide face, long thin legs, and elongated neck are perfectly adapted for walking on desert sands. Though riding a camel seemed an adventurous proposition, the contorted position of the rider on the animal's hump gave the impression of a less-than-comfortable journey.
The highlight of our visit came at five o'clock when an announcement echoed through loudspeakers, signaling the commencement of the elephant dance. We hurried to the designated area and took our seats on the terraced steps. The performance was nothing short of extraordinary, with the elephants displaying remarkable discipline and intelligence, captivating the audience with their movements.
As the day drew to a close, we departed from Dehiwala Zoo with a sense of fulfillment and newfound knowledge. The visit had been a memorable experience, providing us with invaluable insights into the fascinating world of wildlife. Dehiwala Zoo stands as a testament to the rich diversity of life on Earth, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have witnessed and learned so much during our unforgettable journey through this enchanting haven of nature's wonders.