Author: Nathasha Silva
Unveiling the Top 50
It was no easy task, but after careful deliberation, our expert panel – Dr. Himesh Jayasinghe (Founder, Butterfly Conservation Society of Sri Lanka / Nature Photographer / Research Fellow, NIFS), Mr. Divanka Randula (Senior Lecturer, University of Kelaniya / Wildlife Photographer), and Mr. Vimukthi Weeratunga (Wildlife Biologist / Nature Photographer) – have selected the top 50 entries. And here they are! P.S.: Entries were anonymised and judged by code for an unbiased selection.
5 Years into Beekeeping
Dilmah Conservation launched ‘Bee a Keeper’ in May 2020 to promote the sustainable use of bees in agriculture and related ecosystems. The Rationale You’ve probably heard about food scarcity and how climate change is often blamed as the main cause. While climate change certainly has a serious impact, there’s more to the story. One of the often-overlooked reasons behind food scarcity is the loss of pollinators. Pollinator decline affects approximately 35% of the world’s crop production. –Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Pollinators like bees are struggling with rising temperatures, shifting flowering seasons, unpredictable and extreme weather- all of which disrupt their food sources and pollination timing. On top of that, human actions make things worse. Did you know? In many rural areas in Sri Lanka, honey is still collected by cutting open wild bee hives built inside tree trunks, crevices, or other natural shelters. This process often involves: This leaves the hive damaged or even destroyed. The inception The project began with a two-fold purpose: to help conserve local honeybees and create sustainable livelihoods. Research plays a key role in the Bee A Keeper project. More research on bees is conducted at the Endane Field Research Station. Established in 2021, our Endane Field Research Centre is the project Hub for ‘Bee A Keeper’. The Core of Its Sustainability Through sustainable beekeeping we support bees, protect their colonies, and only collect what they can spare. It’s done through bee boxes. Bee boxes, or beekeeping boxes, provide a structured, non-invasive, and sustainable way to harvest honey. These boxes: The present shape of ‘Bee A Keeper’ Providing bee boxes and training is just the start. Real impact comes from understanding hive dynamics. Detailed studies show that the queen bee drives the colony’s health and success. That’s where our bee research comes into play. Way forward At the One Earth Climate Change Centre in Nawalapitiya, bee research remains a core focus. With Endane leading the ‘Bee A Keeper’ project, the centre has grown into a key hub for bee-related research and education. We’ve also expanded the project in new ways: In Moratuwa – Partnering with universities to bring bee knowledge to future planners and researchers In the Eastern Province – Providing training and tools to indigenous communities, helping preserve their traditions while improving livelihoods sustainably. This is about building a mutual relationship:We create safe spaces for bees, and in return, they help us grow food, protect ecosystems, and fight climate change. Bees aren’t just part of nature — they are partners in keeping life going.
The Biodiversity of Dilmah’s Windsor Forest Tea Estate: More Than What Meets the Eye
When we think of rich biodiversity, dense rainforests or untouched national parks come to mind. Managed landscapes like tea estates are often seen as monocultures – neat rows of tea bushes with little life in between. But our recent biodiversity assessment at the Windsor Forest Estate reveals a more nuanced story. When nature is integrated and biodiversity is supported, even cultivated landscapes can serve as important refuges for countless species — showing that agricultural land doesn’t have to be barren to be productive. Windsor Forest Estate is a Dilmah estate in Sri Lanka, known for its high-quality, mid-grown Ceylon tea. It’s a garden mark for the Galamuduna Estate, located 22 kilometers from Nawalapitiya. The estate’s name is derived from an unusual rock at the top of a hill. It’s also said to be the 7th tea factory to be registered in Ceylon. Conducted by Dilmah Conservation with an expert team led by Conservation Biologist, Mr. Rukmal Ratnayake to support possible upcoming eco-tourism initiatives in the area, this study has offered vital insights for conservation, habitat restoration, and long-term sustainability. Biodiversity Hidden in Plain Sight The assessment recorded a remarkable 407 species of fauna, including 277 vertebrates and 130 invertebrates. That’s a number many might not expect from a region associated with tea cultivation. Birds made up 122 species, but what’s truly astonishing is the diversity that lies beneath the surface – beyond the branches and the bird calls. This includes, 40 amphibians, 6 species of fish, 60 reptiles, 48 mammals, 88 butterflies, 28 odonates (dragonflies and damselflies), and 14 moths. Their presence in and around Windsor Forest shows that managed lands can be vibrant ecosystems if approached with care and vision. Endemic Richness Sri Lanka is known for its high rate of endemism, and this site is no exception: The floral diversity also stood out, with 273 species of flowering plants, including 84 endemics. Did you know?The more diverse the plant life, the more diverse the animal life. Every creature finds food, shelter, or nesting ground in different plants. A single patch of thriving vegetation can support a web of life—if we let it. Rethinking What Biodiversity Looks Like What this study shows us is that biodiversity isn’t always loud or obvious. A true picture of biodiversity includes the silent amphibians that indicate water quality, the butterflies that pollinate flowers, the reptiles that control pest populations, and the moths that feed nocturnal species. Many of these creatures go unseen, either because they are small, camouflaged, or simply active at times when humans are not. But they are no less important. Their presence (or absence) tells us about the health of an ecosystem. It’s a reminder that biodiversity is not limited to untouched wilderness. It can thrive in places like tea estates, or even managed lands like the landscaped garden at your own home, provided that these landscapes are nurtured with ecological sensitivity. Photo credits: Sanoj Wijayasekara (SW), Rukmal Ratnayake (RR)Tharindu Ranasinghe (TR) and Nuwan Chathuranga (NC) , Narmadha Dangampola (ND)
A sneak-peak before we announce the winners!
Our first-ever Butterfly Photography Competition has wrapped up, and we’re thrilled to share a few randomly picked entries — each one a unique snapshot. We received an incredible variety of butterfly species, beautifully captured by enthusiasts from across the island. Sincere appreciation to every participant whose lens captured not just butterflies, but a quiet commitment to conservation through the art of observation. Stay tuned- the winners will be announced soon! The top 50 entries selected by our expert panel – Dr. Himesh Jayasinghe (Founder, Butterfly Conservation Society of Sri Lanka / Nature Photographer / Research Fellow, NIFS), Mr. Divanka Randula (Senior Lecturer, University of Kelaniya / Wildlife Photographer), and Mr. Vimukthi Weeratunga (Wildlife Biologist / Nature Photographer) will be showcased at a physical exhibition which will be held together with the opening of our revamped butterfly garden at the Dilmah One Earth Centre, Moratuwa. Since 2011, this peaceful urban haven has been home to 61 of Sri Lanka’s 248 butterfly species. More than just a garden, it’s a living classroom and sanctuary for pollinators, helping to raise awareness, spark curiosity, and protect biodiversity in the heart of the city. Now, with a beautifully revamped space reopening soon, the competition marks a perfect moment to reflect on the beauty and importance of butterflies in our ecosystems.
A walk through the Butterfly Garden and Urban Arboretum with our Dilmah Global Family.
The 11th Dilmah Global Family Conference participants visited the One Earth Centre in Moratuwa, touring the open-air Butterfly Garden, home to 70 native butterfly species and the Arboretum housing 300 tree species. To give everyone a full and hands-on experience, we split into smaller groups and guided them through key spaces cared for by the MJF Charitable Foundation, and Dilmah Conservation – the Urban Arboretum, Butterfly Garden, Heritage Centre, and Organic Garden. The energy was high and the curiosity even higher with each group eager to explore every corner. These short 20-minute walks through each space were more than just scenic strolls. They were a chance to pause, take in the space, and see the quiet, thoughtful work happening all around. Questions sparked curiosity — from butterfly species flitting through the garden, to the range of trees in the arboretum, to planting techniques in the organic garden. Our guests witnessed how nature, when nurtured, gives back in so many ways. The conversations that followed were just as rich — connecting biodiversity, human wellbeing, and sustainability in a meaningful way. Out of the many events lined up during the week-long conference, this visit sure stands out. It’s a reminder to us all that each member of the Dilmah family plays a part in something bigger, a shared mission to protect nature and uplift people. Because at the end of the day, we’re not just a tea company. We’re a family with purpose. The 11th Dilmah Global Family Conference commenced on the 6th of May 2025 — the birth anniversary of our Founder, Merrill J. Fernando, marked as Kindness Day – a day to reflect on the values he championed: kindness to people, kindness to the planet.
Sri Lanka’s First-Ever Butterfly Competition: Spotlight on Pollinators
Dilmah’s sustainability arm, Dilmah Conservation, is pleased to introduce Sri Lanka’s first-ever Butterfly Competition- an exciting initiative to foster awareness and appreciation for these delicate pollinators. Why a butterfly photography competition? Since October 2011, we have nurtured Sri Lanka’s first urban open-air butterfly garden in the heart of Moratuwa – an urban sanctuary where butterflies and several other pollinators thrive. To date, this haven has recorded 61 of the 248 butterfly species found in Sri Lanka, and serves as a model for Dilmah Conservation to conduct education and awareness programmes about butterflies. Now, with a newly revamped space set to reopen in a month, we’re celebrating the occasion with a competition that invites nature lovers to capture the beauty of Sri Lanka’s butterflies through photography. Who Can Join? Anyone can participate, whether you’re a resident or not! The only rule? Your photograph must feature a butterfly species found in Sri Lanka. This competition offers two exciting themes: 📸 Theme 01 – “Captured Worth”A photograph that not only showcases the beauty of butterflies but also highlights their ecological importance. This category aims to raise awareness of the need to protect these vital creatures and their habitats. 📸 Theme 02 – “Beyond the Image: Stories Unfolded”A thought-provoking image that goes beyond aesthetics, capturing emotions, moments, or narratives that draw the audience in making them want to know more. It’s more than just a competition, it’s a celebration of biodiversity, a tribute to the vital role butterflies play in our ecosystems, and a chance to showcase their beauty through great photography. Excited to participate? Click here for details | submit here Looking forward to visiting our butterfly garden in Moratuwa? Stay tuned for reopening dates!
A Book Reading with Kids to Celebrate World Bear Day
In celebration of World Bear Day, Dilmah Conservation hosted a special book reading of their very first children’s conservation book – Shyamala and the Sloth Bears. The book’s author, Jody Miller, took on the role of storyteller for the day. A Story that Sparks Conservation Thinking Children today are quick learners, absorbing knowledge at an incredible pace. But the key lies in guiding them toward the right kind of knowledge – one that fosters empathy and responsibility for nature. A book centered on animal conservation, particularly one as unique as the sloth bear, was the perfect way to introduce young minds to the importance of protecting wildlife. Who is the Sloth Bear? Unlike its name suggests, the sloth bear (Melursus ursinus) is not related to sloths but is a unique bear species found in South Asia. Recognisable by its shaggy black coat, long curved claws, and distinctive white chest marking, this bear is an endemic species, meaning it is native to specific regions and not found anywhere else in the wild. Unlike other bears, sloth bears have a diet rich in insects, particularly termites and ants which they suck up through their specially adapted lips. They also play a crucial role in their ecosystems by spreading seeds and even creating water holes that benefit other wildlife. A Story Comes to Life Jody Miller enhanced the experience by describing the sloth bear’s long claws, furry coat, and unique habits, making the storytelling both educational and immersive. Even the youngest attendees were captivated by the event, thanks to the stunning illustrations by Narada Ranathunga, which brought the story to life in vivid colours. Following the book reading, children engaged in a creative art session, drawing their own interpretations of the sloth bear. It was nice to see how the youngsters capture all the details of the sloth bear in the artwork. Inspiring the Next Generation of Conservationists One of the most heartwarming moments of the session came when a young participant insightfully remarked, “A sloth bear is the reason others get water in the dry season. If we conserve the sloth bear, so will the others be conserved.” This simple yet profound realisation captured the very essence of Jody’s message in her book – why protecting sloth bears means protecting an entire ecosystem. With that, Dilmah Conservation’s first-ever children’s conservation book reading became more than just an event; it was a step toward shaping young minds to care for nature. Through storytelling, illustrations, and interactive discussions, the session emphasized the vital role of sloth bears in the ecosystem, leaving children with a lasting message: Every species matters in maintaining the ecosystem’s balance, we must save them before they’re gone. If you’d like to read the story yourself or own a copy, the book is available for purchase at the Barefoot Bookshop, Colombo 4.
Nurturing Nature: Endane Field Research Centre – A Lifeline for Endangered Trees
“Nature can recover. It just needs a little help. The Endane Biodiversity Corridor can be a model, and we will see the full outcome in a few years.” – Jean-Christophe Vié, Director General of Fondation Franklinia Jean-Christophe Vié visited our Endane Biodiversity Corridor to observe the progress of our conservation initiative, supported by Fondation Franklinia, for both in-situ and ex-situ conservation of threatened, endemic rainforest tree species in Southwestern Sri Lanka. His visit provided an opportunity to assess the impact of this ongoing effort. Why conservation matters With deforestation accelerating worldwide and even within Sri Lanka, the risk to our biodiversity has never been greater. Forests – home to countless species – are shrinking, leaving many plants and animals struggling to survive. While in-situ conservation (protecting species in their natural habitats) remains the primary strategy, ex-situ conservation (protecting species outside their natural habitats) has become a vital backup plan for biodiversity at risk. It acts as a lifeline for endangered species, offering a way to nurture and restore them before it’s too late. By establishing captive breeding programs, seed banks, and plant nurseries, conservationists ensure that species on the brink of extinction have a fighting chance. Some species are so critically endangered that they no longer have viable populations in the wild. In such cases, ex-situ conservation becomes the last hope for their survival. What we do at our Field Research Centre at Endane At Dilmah Conservation’s Field Research Centre at Endane, we have been at the forefront of both in-situ and ex-situ conservation. In 2020, we established a dedicated plant nursery for threatened and endangered plant species, focusing on their protection and restoration. Our efforts so far include: – 545 tree species georeferenced for in-situ conservation – 188 threatened tree species georeferenced (allowing users to determine the location on map) in Walankanda Forest Reserve – 13,804 seedlings of rainforest species raised in nurseries, representing 173 species, 85 globally threatened tree species nurtured in our nurseries – 6,180 seedlings planted in the Endane Biodiversity Corridor for in-situ conservation – 60 globally threatened tree species planted in Endane Biodiversity Corridor & Seethawaka Botanical Garden – 1,120 plants distributed to four ex-situ forest restoration sites under our direct supervision One of our most remarkable achievements is the rediscovery of two rainforest tree species previously classified as “Extinct in the Wild” (EW): These species were found outside protected areas, georeferenced, and successfully propagated for ex-situ conservation, ensuring their survival for future generations. Joining hands with Fondation Franklinia In 2021, Fondation Franklinia, Switzerland, recognized our mission and provided funding to protect Sri Lanka’s threatened and endemic rainforest trees. Their support has allowed us to expand our conservation efforts and strengthen both in-situ and ex-situ initiatives. As a symbolic gesture of commitment to conservation, Jean-Christophe Vié, Director General of Fondation Franklinia, during his visit to the Seethawaka Botanical Garden in March 2025, planted a Doona ovalifolia -a plant that was previously classified as Extinct in the Wild and rediscovered, symbolising a shared commitment to global conservation. The Future is in Our Hands Conservation is not just about preserving the past, it’s about securing the future. By protecting our forests, nurturing endangered species, and restoring lost habitats, we ensure that future generations inherit a world rich in biodiversity. What we conserve today, we will have for the future!
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