Blocks 1 and 2 of the Yala National Park have been temporarily closed to tourists from today (14) for one month as prolonged dry weather has caused severe water and food shortages for wildlife.
The Department of Wildlife Conservation said the closure would remain in effect until 15 October 2026 to minimise disturbances to animals searching for water and food amid the prevailing drought conditions.
Several water sources within the national park have dried up due to high temperatures, while vegetation and grasslands have also withered, reducing food availability for animals.
Wildlife officers are currently carrying out extensive efforts to supply water to drought-affected animals.
As part of these measures, water pumped from four locations along the Menik Ganga using solar-powered pumps is being transported through underground pipelines to ponds within the park.
In addition, wildlife officers are transporting around 200,000 litres of water daily by bowsers to replenish both artificial and natural ponds.
The temporary closure of Blocks 1 and 2 is intended to reduce human disturbance and allow wildlife greater freedom to move in search of scarce food and water.
Yala National Park is home to 44 species of mammals, 215 species of birds, 47 species of reptiles and 21 species of fish.
The park generally records its highest tourist arrivals between August and March. However, the current tourist season has been severely affected by El Niño-related condition
