Off India's eastern coast lies Sri Lanka (the former Ceylon), alias Monsoon island, which has a double monsoon climate. Two thirds are relatively dry plains, were largely derelict rice irrigation was the basis of ancient Buddhist kingdoms, but remains crucial to wildlife, including the largest herds of Asian elephants, a slightly larger subspecies, yet Indian relatives with tusks are imported for temple ceremonies. The largest leopard subspecies is the alpha predator, in the absence of larger felines, mainly hunting deer. More unique is the rich wildlife in the ...
