Wild Life in Goa

Goa is divided into north and south Goa. while north is more popular for activities, adventures, pilgrimage and south Goa is famous for serene beaches 

Wildlife Sanctuaries in South Goa:

South Goa is also famous for its wildlife hub that includes various wildlife sanctuaries and national parks.

Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary

Near to the Karnataka border, this wildlife sanctuary serves as a home to a variety of a treasure trove of luxuriant flora and varied fauna. This is biggest security in Goa which is spreading over 240 sq. KM, surrounded by thick forests and different types of trees.

It’s a place for several animals like Gaur, Sambar, Leopards, Spotted Deer, Wild Boar, Slender Toris, and Jungle cats, Giant Squirrels, Pythons and Cobras.

You can see different birds and insects besides these animals. These birds can also be heard and seen all over the place.

Keep in Mind

• The park is open from 8 am till 5 pm
• Charge Rs 20 for adults and Rs 5 per child.
• Vehicle entry charges and camera fee are Rs 40 (two wheeler), 120(cars) and Rs 30(still camera) and Rs 150(video camera)
• Closest City: Margao, 54 kms
• Closest Airport: Dabolim, 80 kms
• Closest Station: Collem 6 kms

What to See?

Dudhsagar Falls, Devil's Canyon, Lord Mahadev's Temple (Tambdi Surla Temple), Bird Watching

2. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

The Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Canacona Taluka, South Goa district, of Goa, India. It covers an area of over 105 sq km There is an Eco-tourism complex at the entrance of the sanctuary that houses a nature interpretation center, cottages, toilets, library, reception area, rescue center, canteen, children's park, and forest ranger office.

Having tall trees, the forest supports moist deciduous trees, semi-evergreen trees, and evergreen trees. A special feature of the sanctuary is a treetop watchtower positioned 25 meters above a watering hole where animals go to drink.

Animals - the flying squirrel, slender Loris, Indian pangolin, mouse deer, four-horned antelope, Malabar pit viper, hump-nosed pit viper, white-bellied woodpecker, Malabar trogon, velvet-fronted nuthatch, heart-spotted woodpecker, speckled piculet, Malayan bittern, Draco or flying lizard, golden-back glides snake, and Malabar tree toad.

What to See

Animals, tigers (May be or not), Some 200 species, Indian Pied Horn-bill, Larger Golden Backed Woodpecker and the Great Indian Woodpecker.

 

Keep in Mind

• Visit 7:00 to 5:30 pm.
• Admission ticket 5 INR, 25 INR for a camera.
• Closest City: Margao, 46 kms
• Closest Airport: Dabolim, 75 kms
• Closest Station: Canacona, 12 kms

Wildlife Attractions in North Goa:

The area encompassing North Goa has many wildlife resorts that tourists should not miss visiting.

3. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary - This is the smallest sanctuary in Goa spreading in 8 SQR KMS area which is 50 km away from Panji the Capital city of Goa state. In other words we can say this is a jungle resort and a major attraction for school goers and natural sight lovers.

Bondla forest is also famous for the varied species of animals such as the Sambhar and Wild Boar. Besides, it is famous for bird watching similar to its counterparts in Cotigao and Chorao and the elephant rides provide the much-needed entertainment in this secluded place.

 Elephant safari is an added attraction. Cottages are also available and provide good accommodation.

Places to see:-

Zoological Park, Deer Safari Park, Formal Gardens, Botanic Gardens, Nature Education Centre , Birds, Wild Animals, Nature Trails.