Large numbers of Sri Lankan elephants are attracted to grass fields on the edges of the reservoir during the dry season.[1] The Minneriya tank contributes to sustain a large herd. Elephants gathered here are numbering around 150-200.[4] Some reports account for the number of elephants to as high as 700.[5] They migrate here from Wasgamuwa National Park and benefit from food and shelter of the park\'s forest. Tourists visit Minneriya largely because of elephants, especially in the dry season.