Goa is a small state on the west coastline of India that attracts tourists throughout the year; indeed, the region also has some great stops for birdwatchers. Coastal plains with mangroves, threaded with the moist deciduous and rain forests of Western Ghats, and its tropical climate accommodate numerous species of birds. Food, accommodation and commutation in Goa are not an issue; however, some may feel that trip to Goa is a bit expensive.
Diverse bio-conditions such as canopies of tropical forests, moist deciduous vegetation of Malabar plains, saltwater wetlands and mangroves favour over 470 species of birds. The species of birds such as Mountain Imperial Pigeon, Large Woodshrike, Plain Flowerpecker, Black-crested Bulbul, Jungle Black-winged Babbler and Malabar Starling are six endemics found in Goa.
For a gratifying experience, the birdwatchers must not ignore the following significant spots in Goa:
Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Sanguem Taluk, Goa. Accessible from Panaji (80 kilometres), Margao (45 kilometres) and Canacona (40 kilometres).
Species of birds that are often sighted here:
- Malayan Night Heron
- Nilgiri Wood Pigeon
- Great Pied Hornbill
- Grey-headed Bulbul
- Rufous Babbler
- White-bellied Blue Flycatcher
- White-bellied Treepie
- Wynaad Laughingthrush
Netravali wildlife sanctuary, with its perennial streams supporting the rich habitats, attract many nature enthusiasts, trekkers, bird watchers and wildlife photographers. The sanctuary enhances its beauty with two main waterfalls that never go dry throughout the year.
Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Canacona Taluk, Goa. Accessible from Panaji (90 kilometres), Margao (60 kilometres) and Canacona (7 kilometres).
Species of birds that are often sighted here:
- Malabar Trogon
- Heart-spotted Woodpecker
- Velvet-fronted Nuthatch
- Osprey
- Speckled Piculet
- Stork-billed Kingfisher
- White-bellied Woodpecker
Dense forests with moist deciduous vegetation, high elevation grasslands, and evergreen trees cover Cotigao wildlife sanctuary. Settlements of kunbi and velip tribal groups, the small life-giving river and treetop watchtowers create a unique ambience for the visitors.
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Dharbandora Taluk, Goa. Reachable in just 60 kilometres from Panaji.
Species of birds that are often sighted here:
- Asian Fairy Bluebird
- Blue-eared Kingfisher
- Flame-throated Bulbul
- Grey-headed Myna
- Grey Jungle Fowl
- Great Indian Hornbill
- Malabar Grey Hornbill
- Indian Black Woodpecker
- Indian Golden Oriole
- Large Green Barbet
- Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher
- Indian Paradise Flycatcher
- Ceylon Frogmouth
- Forest Wagtail
The delightful highlights of Bhagwan Mahavir wildlife sanctuary are the tropical evergreen forests and captivating landscapes of the Western Ghats, rich wildlife, several streams, waterfalls and ancient temples. It offers safari to explore and enjoy the wilderness, and the famous Dudhsagar falls for tourists.
Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Sattari Taluk, Goa. Reachable in just 55 kilometres from Panaji and 105 kilometres from Belgaum.
Species of birds that are often sighted here:
- Crimson-backed Sunbird
- Nilgiri Wood Pigeon
- Malabar Parakeet
- Malabar Grey Hornbill
- Grey-headed Bulbul
- Rufous Babbler
- White-bellied Blue Flycatcher
One of the sanctuaries in the Western Ghats is to experience the beauty of nature in its state with negligible tourism activities. Mhadei wildlife sanctuary is sufficed with natural splendours, evergreen forests, fascinating waterfalls, and tough terrains rich in flora and fauna. It is a protected reserve forest facing numerous threats and an International Bird Area.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Ponda Taluk, Goa. Accessible from Panaji (50 kilometres), Margao (38 kilometres) and Ponda (20 kilometres).
Species of birds that are often sighted here:
- Forest Wagtail
- Golden-backed Woodpecker
- Indian Peafowl
- Indian Pitta
- Little Spider Hunter
- Green-billed Malkoha
- Black Eagle
- Orange-headed Thrush
- Brown-cheeked Fulvetta
- Silver Pheasant
- Vigors Sunbird
Bondla is an excellent place for eco-tourism; there are cottages to experience a pleasurable and tranquil stay. Take a walk in the early morning and evening through exotic gardens to spot various colourful birds. A small zoo in the sanctuary retains some wildlife in captivity.
Other Recommended Places For Spotting Birds
Laterite plateaus of Pale village, Agacaim mudflats and Carambolim lake are preferred spots for birdwatchers in Goa that attract many migratory and wetland birds. Brown-headed gull, Indian roller, osprey, black-headed munia, blue-bearded bee-eater, Jerdon’s nightjar, white-bellied sea eagle, western marsh harrier, booted eagle, kingfishers, northern pintail, northern shoveler, ashy prinia, black-rumped flameback, cotton pygmy goose and many more birds are commonly found in these habitats.
Goa, India – September 18, 2016: Trekkers help each other while trekking along the rugged banks of Salaulim River in Netravali in Goa, during the monsoon rainy season. (Photo by Matjoe / Shutterstock.com)
Tips for Birdwatchers:
- Planning for morning walks to spot birds by staying in homestays, and resorts closer to these sanctuaries proves beneficial.
- Avoid accessing the interior parts of these dense forests in the monsoon.
- These sanctuaries are home to many venomous snakes; take the help of local guides and carry necessary medical aids.
References:
- Birds of South Asia: The Ripley Guide by Pamela C. Rasmussen and John C. Anderton
- Birds of the Indian Subcontinent: India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and the Maldives by Richard Grimmett, Carol Inskipp & Tim Inskipp
- The Book of Indian Birds by Salim Ali
