A spotted dove resting in the shade, Avissawella, Sri Lanka.

Spotted doves are endemic to Sri Lanka. They are usually seen in pairs and prefer shade. They emit a rumbling cooing sound.

A forest pool, Sithawaka, Sri Lanka.

'Little egret' resting on a coconut palm, Avissawella,Sri Lanka

Latex collection from a rubber tree - before and after, Kudagama, Sri Lanka

Note the half shell of the coconut used to collect the latex. It is turned down after the latex is collected. Latex is a sweet liquid and hungry dogs or cattle occasionally drink it. The swallowed latex is coagulated by the action of the acid in the stomach. It becomes solid and fills the stomach cavity preventing the animals from being unable to partake of a full meal. The affected animals have a lingering death due to starvation.

Mining for gems in the Sithawaka Oya, Kudagama, Sri Lanka.

The river bed contain s gems in the Sithawaka Oya at Avissawella. Bamboo barriers are erected across the flowing water and the gravel is taken out and searched for gems. Saphires, rubies etc are found and make many a villager rich overnight.