Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary: A Mangrove Paradise

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, situated on the western tip of Chorao Island along the Mandovi River in Goa, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Named after the eminent Indian ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali, the sanctuary spans 178 hectares (440 acres) and is renowned for its rich estuarine mangrove habitat. Declared a reserved area in 1988, it is Goa's only bird sanctuary. The sanctuary's diverse flora includes 14 species of mangrove vegetation, providing a fertile environment for various fish, insects, and birds. Visitors can explore the sanctuary via a paved walkway that meanders through the mangroves. Boat tours are also available, offering a unique perspective of the ecosystem and its inhabitants. Keep an eye out for a variety of bird species, including kingfishers, egrets, herons, cormorants, kites, eagles, woodpeckers, sandpipers, curlews, drongos, and mynahs. Lucky visitors may also spot rarer species such as the purple heron, striated heron, black bittern, and pied avocet. Beyond birds, the sanctuary is home to other fascinating creatures, including mudskippers, fiddler crabs, crocodiles, otters, flying foxes, and jackals. The sanctuary also has a Nature Research Centre, providing further insights into the area's unique ecosystem. The best time to visit is between October and March, when migratory birds flock to the sanctuary. Early morning visits (6 am to 8 am) or late afternoon visits are ideal for spotting the most birds.