Location:
Chorao Island on the Mandovi River, Goa
Highlights: 400 species of birds, local and migratory
Best Time to Visit: October to March
How to Reach: From Panaji, one can take a cab, auto or bus till
the Ribandar ferry dock and take a ferry across the Mandovi River to the
island.
Dr. Salim Ali Bird sanctuary is one of the most famous bird sanctuaries
in India. It has been named after the famous ornithologist of India, Dr.
Salim Ali. This bird sanctuary is one of the smallest bird sanctuaries
in Goa and is spread over an area of just 1.8 square kilometers. Even
though it is small, it has a variety of species of birds and plants.
Numerous tourists visit this sanctuary to observe the delightful winged
creatures. Dr. Salim Ali bird sanctuary houses not just local but exotic
migratory birds as well. In order to visit this sanctuary, one must seek
the permission of Chief Wild Life Warden, Forest Department of Panaji.
Flora
The sanctuary is rich in flora growth and one can see a thick covering
of mangrove vegetation here. The flora cover is very fertile over here
the mangrove ecology is considered to be the best for birds, fish and
insects to multiply. They provide thick shelter for the birds and are
their natural abodes.
Fauna
Here one can find local as well as migratory birds. The best time to
see the migratory birds is right after the monsoons around the month of
October to March. The weather is quite pleasant then and the birds come
here in plenty. One can find kingfishers, pintails, coots, egrets, etc.
among the birds. If you are observant you may also spot crocodiles,
jackals and foxes.
