Goa - Its Exciting Wildlife

Goa offers more than just sun ‘n’ sand on its beautiful beaches. Goa is also a treat for wild life and bird lovers! There are four wildlife and bird sanctuaries in Goa.

Just about 50 km from Panaji is the smallest wildlife sanctuary in Goa called the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary—a jungle resort complete with tourist cottages.  This sanctuary for wildlife is more like a small zoo and has a Deer Safari Park.  Here you can spot wild boars, sambar, black panthers, giant squirrels, scaly ant eaters, flying lizards and occasionally, if you’re lucky, a herd of elephants.  The Indian bison, called the gaur, is the state animal and is frequently seen here. For the more adventurous, nature trails offer wildlife education as you walk. This sanctuary also has a botanical garden, Nature Education Centres and a rose garden.  There is even a watch tower hideout to spy on animals as they come to drink at water holes.

The Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, also about 50 km from Panaji, is the largest sanctuary in Goa. You’ll need to spend at least 2-3 days here for the full wildlife experience it offers.  Famous for spotting gaur, spotted deer, sambar, jungle cats and leopards, giant squirrels, birds as well as pythons and cobras.

Cartigao is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Goa.  It offers a view of the same wildlife animals and birds found in the other sanctuaraies. Cartigao is deep in the forestland and a quiet place to enjoy nature in all its varied beauty. 

The famous Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, the only bird sanctuary in Goa, is situated on the island of Chorao.  A ferry can take you from Ribander Ferry Wharf, across the Mandova River to Chorao Island.  The bird watchtower in the Sanctuary allows you a better view of the amazing variety of local and migratory birds. Besides birds, you can see flying foxes, jackals, crocodiles, and turtles.

While you enjoy the beautiful, sun-kissed beaches of Goa, make sure you visit at least one of these wildlife spots.