Wild Life in Goa
Get set to explore the wild side of this wonderful state. Nestled amidst the steep Western Ghats, the Wildlife Sanctuaries of Goa is the home of many rare species of flora and fauna. The thickly forested regions which have turned into a number of Wildlife Sanctuaries in Goa attract tourists from all over the world for its beauty and rare species of flora and fauna. Indianholiday.com offers online information about Wildlife Sanctuaries in Goa. People who have a penchant for forests, chirping of birds and love to spot wild animals can experience the Goan wild life in any of the four major sanctuaries located here. Lush green vegetation and absolutely natural surroundings make these sanctuaries a place that should not be missed while on your trip to Goa. So get set to feel the adrenalin rush through your body as you wade through the thick jungles and spot a panther sitting merely at a distance of 100 meters from you! Explore the vast virgin forests of Goa and acquaint yourself with a vast array of birds and flowers. There are four famous wildlife sanctuaries in Goa.
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary
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The Bhagwan Mahavir wildlife sanctuary is the largest wildlife sanctuary out of the four sanctuaries located in Goa. Spread over an area of 240 square kilometers, the Bhagvan Mahaveer sanctuary is located amongst the thick forest cover on the slopes of the Western Ghats. The lush green forest cover is home to a variety of animals and birds.Located close to the Molem village at the foot of the Western Ghats, this sanctuary lies on the eastern border of the state. It is 53 kilometres away from the state capital, Panaji. The sanctuary is situated amidst nature's splendour; evergreen forests and deciduous trees encompass this preserve.In the heart of the sanctuary is the Molem National Park. Herds of deer and gaurs (Indian bison), clusters of monkeys, Malayan giant squirrels, cobras and pythons are a common sight. And if you get lucky, you might even spot elephants and tigers. The sanctuary is also home to a few black panthers but spotting them is not an easy task. The best time to visit the sanctuary is either early in the morning or late in the evening. The forest department has made arrangements for jeeps that take you on your excursion through the sanctuary. To avail of this facility, do contact the Range Forest Officer. But to be able to get a glimpse of the wildlife, you might have to spend couple of days. |
Cotigoa Wildlife Sanctuary
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The Cotigoa wildlife sanctuary is located in the Canacona district in south Goa. This sanctuary was established in the year 1969. It covers an area of 86 square kilometers and is the second largest sanctuary in Goa. To reach the Catigoa national park, you will have to hire a vehicle of your own and reach from nearby places in south Goa. One can watch the animals from the 25 meter high watchtower that is located near the Talpona River that flows through this sanctuary.The number of animals in this sanctuary has decreased over the years but one still comes across sloth bears, hyenas, wild boars, deer and gaurs.Reptiles and monkeys are in plentiful. However, birds like the white-eyed eagle, rufous woodpecker and the Malabar crested eagle that are not easily spotted in Goa, can be found here. This sanctuary will also please a true tree lover.The park has a 25 metre high treetop watchtower from where one can watch the animals visit the waterholes around the place. However, you will need your own vehicle to visit the sanctuary as no vehicles are provided by the forest department to take you around. |
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
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Spread over an area of around 8 square kilometers, the Bondla wildlife sanctuary is the smallest wildlife sanctuary in Goa. The landscape of the Bondla wildlife sanctuary is strikingly beautiful and the lush green vegetation provides a natural ecosystem. The Bondla national park has a Botanical Garden, Rose Garden and Deer Park within its premises.Animals such as the black-faced langur, Indian bison, jackal and wild boar are commonly found here. Various species of deer are can also be spotted. Besides being home to animals, this preserve is also a treat for bird watchers and butterfly spotters. This sanctuary also boasts of a tiny zoo, although nowadays the zoo is not very well maintained and number of animals too has decreased. However, elephant rides are still offered at this park. You can even go on a deer safari through the sanctuary. After having ventured out into the preserve, you can come and relax at the botanical garden within the premises of the sanctuary. A small Nature Education Centre has also been established. This Centre is generally used for viewing educational wildlife videos. |
Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
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Dr. Salim Ali Bird sanctuary is one of the most famous bird sanctuaries in India. It hasbeen 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. |
