Daily Mirror - Print Edition

Elephantine Tales – New Book by Srilal Miththapala

16 Jun 2023 - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}      

Srilal Miththapala recently launched his second book on elephants. This book is a collection of short anecdotes of his experiences in the national parks of Sri Lanka, doing what he yearns to, as often as possible - exploring nature, wild life and of course elephants. The book is full of ‘Elephantine Tales’ and a few other wildlife as well. It will be of interest to the die-hard wildlife fraternity, as well as to the laymen with some interest in wildlife  


It is somewhat a personal odyssey re-living his experiences and close interaction with these gentle giants. It is written in simple language and the narratives are packed with in depth information about environment, wild life and elephant behaviour.  
Here’s what the world famous elephant researcher of Amboseli fame, Dr Joyce Poole says about the book.


 “I really enjoyed your book. Elephantine Tales is an immensely readable book about elephants and the love of the Sri Lankan people for them. Srilal Miththapala’s first hand experiences took me back to the short period I studied elephants in Sri Lanka, and reminded me of the warmth and enthusiasm of the people I met there. Miththapala’s tales are those of a naturalist who sets an example of the kind of individual dedication upon which the future survival of the country’s elephants depend.”  
Dr. Joyce Poole, Co-Founder and Scientific Director, ElephantVoices. 


“Prof. Devaka Rodrigo our own top environment expert and head of the Dept. of Zoology in the Colombo University says 
“In this book, Srilal presents a series of short stories about his close encounters with elephants. However, I feel that the book transcends just storytelling, as it provides a wealth of information about the ecology and biology of elephants. Further, the book also provides the reader with an account of the historical changes that have taken place in some of the National parks in Sri Lanka, especially Uda Walawe National Park. I found this book very inspiring and informative.  


Prof. Devaka Weerakoon Professor of Environment Science Colombo University, Dr. Sumith Pilapitiya former Head of Environment World Bank and former Director Wildlife and Mr. Hiran Cooray Chairman Jetwing group graced the event.  
The book was launched in June at Jetwing Colombo 7 hotel with a small but appreciative audience who enjoyed the evening, which was followed by light cocktails generously sponsored by Jetwing.

Srilal Miththapala