The united nations declared this year as the international Bio Diversity year 2010

Though Sri Lanka is very small in land area, the great diversity in habitats harbors are a rich and diverse fauna and flora, with many species endemic to the island. Within the confines of 65,600 square Kilometers inhabit over 600 species of terrestrial vertebrates. For instance, there are 82 mammals, over400 birds, 133 reptiles, and 54 amphibians.

Four species of wild cats found in Sri Lanka, the leopard is the largest. No information exists for all the species of cats in regard to their population, distribution and status. There is also small scale poaching of all the species of cats for their skins, teeth and meat.

The sloth bear is the only species of bear found in Sri Lanka.

Five species of deer found in Sri Lanka, the spotted deer and its cousin, the sambar, have the largest distribution.

The inland waters of Sri Lanka have more than 60 species of fresh water fish of which over 24 species are only found in Sri Lanka. Closer to a 1,000 species of fish are found in the coastal waters surrounding the island. Domestic and industrial affluents and pollutants discharged into rivers and other waterways are a threat to the survival of these fresh water and coastal fishes, and other marine ecosystems such as coral reefs.  The territorial waters of the Indian Ocean is also home to a rich and varied marine life. Five species of sea turtles and 25 species of whales and dolphins inhabit these coastal waters. 

Wealth of plant life of which a majority are endemic to the island. Many species of colorful and rare orchids, ferns, ayurvedic herbs and plants, large trees, bromeliads and epiphytes creates colorful, exotic and rich habitats for other animal life, and a salubrious environment for humans.