Explorer
3200 Points
The Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is one of Goa's finest ecological treasures, nestled on the western tip of Chorao Island along the tranquil waters of the Mandovi River. Spanning roughly 1.8 square kilometers of dense estuarine mangrove forest, this wildlife haven is named in honor of Dr. Salim Ali, India’s legendary 'Birdman'.Visitors can navigate through the intricate network of water channels aboard small motorboats or explore dedicated paved boardwalks surrounded by mangrove species such as Rhizophora and Avicennia. The sanctuary serves as a vital breeding ground and shelter for resident as well as migratory species. Here, birdwatchers can spot brilliant Kingfishers, Western Reef Herons, Striated Herons, Black Bitterns, Little Cormorants, and Eurasian Spoonbills.Beyond its rich avian population, the unique intertidal muddy habitat teems with fascinating estuarine fauna, including mudskippers, fiddler crabs, otters, and occasionally marsh crocodiles basking along the riverbanks.
Nestled in the quiet southeastern corner of Goa along the Western Ghats, Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary covers approximately 211 square kilometers of dense moist deciduous and semi-evergreen forest. Named after the Netravali (Neturlim) River, a vital tributary of the Zuari River, this sanctuary is an invaluable ecological corridor connecting the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary.Unlike Goa's bustling coastal strips, Netravali offers a peaceful wilderness experience. It is home to a rich biodiversity including the Malabar giant squirrel, gaur (Indian bison), leopards, slender loris, king cobras, and an incredible array of butterflies and bird species. Visitors can trek through shaded forest tracks leading to breathtaking hidden waterfalls like Savari Waterfall and Mainapi Waterfall.Nearby, the mysterious Budbudyanchi Tali (Bubble Lake) adds a touch of local folklore, where continuous water bubbles rise to the surface at the sound of a rhythmic clap or sound.