5.10 am

Woke up to the usual morning mist rolling over Horton Plains. It clings to my coat, cold at first, but I don’t mind. My thick fur keeps me warm. The grass was fresh today—soft, damp, just the way I like it. I spent a good while grazing, pulling at the leaves of a low-hanging branch when the grass wasn’t enough. A stop at the salt lick felt necessary, too. I wonder if the others notice how much better I feel after a good dose of minerals. Maybe I should eat more soil like some of them do… but I don’t think I’m that desperate yet.

2.00 pm

The plains were quiet in the afternoon. I found a good spot under some trees and dozed off, ears twitching at every unfamiliar sound. It’s best to stay alert—leopards are always around. I haven’t seen one in a while, but that doesn’t mean they’re not watching. If one does come too close, I’ll be ready. The last time it happened, my alarm call sent the whole valley into a panic. Not that I enjoy causing a fuss, but better that than ending up as someone’s dinner.

3.30 pm

I passed a few other deer on my way to the waterhole. Nodded at them, but didn’t stop. I like my space. The younger ones move in little groups, but as I’ve gotten older I’ve learned to enjoy the quiet. Except when the mating season starts—then everything changes. The hinds will be watching, and I’ll have to decide where I stand. But not today. Today, it’s just me, the grass, and the wind moving through the trees.

4.30 pm

Saw some humans again. They come here often, walking the trails, staring through those strange black boxes they carry. They seem fascinated by us, but I don’t understand why. I heard one of them calling out, trying to get my attention. I ignored him. Some of the younger deer wander too close, hoping for food. Not me. I know better. What they carry isn’t real food, and I have no interest in losing my instincts for a bite of something unnatural.

6.00 pm

The mist is creeping back in now. Time to settle down for the night. Maybe tomorrow, I’ll explore the hills a little further. Or maybe I’ll stay right here. No rush. Life in Horton Plains moves at its own pace.

Dilum captured this stunning shot of a majestic Sambar deer during a trek at Horton Plains National Park. Guests staying at the Mahoora Tented Safari Camp in Wilpattu and Yala frequently spot these deer on safari, as they typically remain within the park boundaries.