This project explored the role of Sri Lanka’s temple forests in conserving biodiversity. By surveying birds and butterflies in 50 temple sites and interviewing monks and local residents, the study highlighted both the ecological value of these sacred spaces and the potential of Buddhist traditions to inspire stronger conservation attitudes.

In Sri Lanka, small temple forest patches of woodland preserved around Buddhist monasteries often serve as overlooked refuges for wildlife. These sacred spaces, traditionally protected for religious reasons, can provide important habitats for species in regions where natural forests are under severe pressure from deforestation, land conversion, and human disturbance. Recognizing this, TERN carried out a study to explore the role of temple forests in conserving biodiversity while also examining how monks and local communities perceive their ecological value. The project surveyed 50 temple forests across different regions, focusing on birds and butterflies as indicator species of ecosystem health. Standardized point counts and transects revealed that many temple forests support significant biodiversity, including diverse bird and butterfly communities, sometimes comparable to larger protected areas. Interviews with monks and local residents further highlighted the close ties between cultural traditions and conservation, while also revealing knowledge gaps and opportunities to strengthen environmental awareness. In addition to biodiversity surveys, the project convened a workshop with monks, conservationists, and community members to discuss the role of Buddhism in shaping conservation attitudes. The findings underscore the potential of temple forests to complement Sri Lanka’s protected area network and demonstrate how religious and cultural values can be powerful allies in addressing today’s biodiversity crisis.