The Peeping Frogs of Nuwara Eliya
A comprehensive initiative documenting amphibian biodiversity through a dedicated wetland sanctuary, ethical eco-tourism trails, and a 60-page educational photographic guide.
Protecting the Highland’s Fragile Ecosystems
As the Resident Naturalist at Jetwing St. Andrew’s, Ishanda spearheaded a bold conservation effort to protect the dwindling amphibian populations in Nuwara Eliya. This project went beyond simple conservation—it actively recreated lost habitats by transforming a commercially valuable plot into a thriving wetland sanctuary.
The initiative introduced 90-minute ethical night trails, utilizing red-filtered torches to avoid harming sensitive amphibian skin, and culminated in the publication of an educational photographic guide to equip the local community with practical conservation knowledge.
Documenting Biodiversity
Frog watching in Nuwara Eliya's cloud forests
Night trails with red-filtered torches
Amphibian biodiversity documentation
Wetland sanctuary habitat
Endemic species in their natural environment
Educational field programme with local guides
A Holistic Approach to Conservation
Habitat Creation
Transformed a commercially valuable plot into a dedicated wetland sanctuary from scratch. Excavated custom ponds of varying depths to replicate microhabitats, and cultivated 33+ native plant species to build an authentic ecosystem.
Ethical Night Trails
Developed and led 90-minute ethical frog-watching experiences. Utilized red-filtered torches exclusively to protect amphibian skin, enforced strict no-touch policies, and provided mandatory educational briefings.
The Publication
Authored a 60-page Educational Photographic Guide to raise awareness. It documents endangered lifecycles, highlights the dangers of chemical fertilizers, and provides steps to create frog-friendly gardens.
Biodiversity Conservation
The restored wetland margins now support a thriving ecosystem, becoming home to 6 frog species, 4 endemic reptiles unique to the central highlands, and drawing over 35 migratory and resident bird species.
Interested in Biodiversity Research & Advocacy?
From habitat restoration to educational eco-tourism, let’s discuss how to protect and showcase native ecosystems responsibly.