Introduction

A popular birding destination in Goa, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary named after the illustrious Indian ornithologist Sir Salim Ali, is best visited from the capital city of Panaji. To arrive at the bird sanctuary, take a bus or hire a taxi to the Rabandar Ferry Wharf, from where you can take the ferry service to Chorao Island along Mandovi River. Spread out over 1.78 sq. kilometers, the sanctuary is covered with dense mangrove forests, typical of the region, where you can spot different species of birds and animals. Since the area is dissected with a network of water channels, movement is restricted to the duration of high tide if one wants to take a boat. For canoes, however, the creeks are accessible even during low tides.

After arriving at the sanctuary, proceed to the western tip of the island which offers wonderful bird watching opportunities. This part of the island along the Mandovi River boasts a great diversity of avifauna including species such as the mudskipper and the black drongo. Mangrove forest and mangrove scrub straddle the small stretch of land along Mandovi and Mapusa River, making it a suitable breeding ground of amphibians and crocodiles. From water fowls to an array of migratory birds, the cheerful chirruping of the birds and their colors make the air vibrant and lively. To get a better view of the sanctuary and the birds, climb up the watchtower and spend some time in solitude hearing bird songs and soaking up the verdant greenery. Keep your SLR camera handy all the while! Outside of several resident birds, the sanctuary also gets some winter visitors such as coots and pintails.

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary remains open throughout the year and you need prior permission from the Chief Wildlife Warden of the Forest Department in Panaji. Embark on a sanctuary tour conducted by the Wildlife Department and experience from close quarters the vibrant birdlife and their peculiarities. Plan your tour preferably around dawn or dusk, considered an ideal time for birding. Take a nature walk through the mangrove wilderness and you might spot exotic birds on tree-tops and tree branches. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary set against such gorgeous scenery, is a paradise for bird watching enthusiasts in Goa.

Special Attributes

It is a beautiful little sanctuary on Chorao Island and offers abundant scope for bird watching.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Avoid wearing bright colored clothes as they alarm most wild animals. And don’t forget to put on your trekking shoes.

Connectivity

To arrive at the bird sanctuary, take a bus or hire a taxi to the Rabandar Ferry Wharf, from where you can take the ferry service to Chorao Island along Mandovi River.

Enjoyed by

Families, Senior Citizens, Backpackers

Exposure

You will be under the open sky of Goa. The sun can get harsh near afternoon, so you are advised to carry sunshades, a sun block cream and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

July, August

Facilities

Embark on a sanctuary tour conducted by the Wildlife Department and experience from close quarters the vibrant birdlife and their peculiarities.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Plan your tour preferably around dawn or dusk, considered an ideal time for birding. Don’t forget to put on your walking shoes. The best time to visit the sanctuary is between September and June, when migratory birds flock here.

Type of site

Bird sanctuary