Have you ever thought about what people in the wild do with those binoculars, pointing towards the trees? Well, that’s more fun than you think it is. Birdwatching- Watching birds in their natural environment and observing them. It is more than just seeing birds and identifying them in their natural habitat; the other interesting bit is how nature provides a habitat for these creatures.
What makes birdwatching darn popular? For starters, it’s super accessible and fun. And trust me, you need to give it a try for once in your life.
Mental health perks
Apart from this, you get to spend more time with nature, explore different places, and help you stay sound. It comes with no intense workouts and also allows you to move at your own pace.
Goa is more than just fish and beaches. You might have no idea, but Goa is home to more than 500 local and migratory species of birds. Isn’t that amazing? So, if you are planning to go birdwatching in Goa, we have birdwatching tips and guides for you.
If you want to go birdwatching in Goa, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is the perfect spot. Chorao Island is one of the most prominent areas for almost 200 migratory birds in the country, and the famous Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is an integral part of this island today!
The interesting part is that you can take a boat ride through the mangroves to meet some rare birds and land creatures. Hold up your binoculars, you might find some species of kingfishers, or some Cormorants and Black-headed ibis if you are lucky! Some birds like Bulbuls and hornbills usually are found deep inside these mangroves, as they tend to live on fruit. A boat ride into the mangroves discovers the Oldest Church of Chorao, one of the most unique temples in the country, too.
Best time: Here, on Chorao Island, you get a perfect sight for bird-watching, and the perfect time for bird-watching in Chorao is in the morning.
Highlights
– A scenic boat ride that covers a part of the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
– Local breakfast with a mesmerising view
– The rarest temple in Goa
– Local Tavern Visit
– Trek to Seminary
If you are looking for an undiscovered bird-watching experience, Divar Island is a perfect destination for you. The old architecture and historical landmarks will make you fall in love with different sides of Goa.
You can find rare birds like the Grey-fronted green pigeon, wood sandpipers, Common redshank, and Asian openbill.
Visit this list to know what birds have been recently spotted in Divar Island.
Travel by ferry across the Mandovi River while admiring locals fishing in the river and spotting these beautiful creatures.
Carambolim Lake has the added attraction of also being a great place for bird-watching. This man-made lake plays host to several species of birds, both local and migratory. According to GTDC, the lake and the forested area around it are so famous for their avian population.
This peaceful and serene lake is counted not just as one of the best places for bird watching in Goa, but also one of the best places in India for bird watching. The birds here are of both aquatic and terrestrial types, and although they are mostly herbivorous, there are also some avian fishers among them.
The common birds here are cattle egrets, white-breasted water hens, and modern pintails that visit during winter migration. You will also easily spot Pintal, lesser whistling teal, Cattle Egrets, pond Heron, and more in this area.
Best time: Although the greenery and foliage around the lake are at their verdant best during the monsoon season, bird watching, especially of migratory birds, is at its peak a little later in the year and continues till March.
Do you know this sanctuary is the second largest and most accessible in all seasons? Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the south of Goa, on the border of Karnataka and Goa. This natural habitat is extremely popular with animals and birds. You can find brightly coloured birds, magnificent trees, and larger species of animals. And if you are an adventure lover, this is your heaven.
Location: Canacona Taluka of South Goa.
According to GTDC, Visitors can spot flying squirrels, slender loris, Indian Pangolin, white-bellied woodpeckers, Malabar trogons, and much more.
Best time: The best time to visit is during peak monsoon months, ie. Between October to March, the whole place is washed clean by the abundant rains.
This sanctuary is very popular for its rich avian biodiversity. The whole habitat is a semi-evergreen forest filled with tall trees and thick forest cover. This place is a delight for nature lovers and ornithologists. You can spot the Sri Lanka Frogmouth, Flame-throated Bulbul, grey-headed bulbul, and the Malabar Parakeet in this heaven. Keep your eyes amongst the branches, you can find vibrantly coloured birds flit in and out of the leaves, and that’s spectacular.
Best time to visit: September to February
Location: Goan town of Mollem
You can also visit Chapora Estuary during October to March, and Western Ghat foothills, Zuari River Basin during June to September, to witness breeding birds putting on quite a show to impress their mates.
Everyone starts somewhere! These beauties are relatively easy to spot and identify:
Ready for a challenge? Finding these elusive birds feels like winning the lottery:
Ready to spot some feathered wonders? Here’s how to level up your birding game:
Spotting is one thing—knowing what you’re looking at is another ball game:
Let’s keep it fun for birds and humans alike:
Each season brings its bird bonanza:
Goa’s incredible bird diversity makes it the perfect place to dip your toe (or fully dive!) into birdwatching. Whether you’re identifying your first kingfisher or searching for that elusive trogon, each sighting creates a memory and deepens your connection to the natural world.
Take the plunge into birdwatching—I promise your world will never look quite the same again once you’ve experienced the joy of noticing our feathered friends!
Honestly? Just your eyes and curiosity to begin with! If upgrading, get 8×42 binoculars and a field guide/app for your region.
Late afternoon until sunset is excellent, or try finding nocturnal species in the evening. Even midday can be productive near water sources or during migration seasons.
Winter (November-February) is ideal, with migratory birds joining residents, creating incredible diversity. The weather is perfect with cool mornings and pleasant days.
Curtorim’s wetlands host amazing birds like the Cotton Pygmy Goose. The Cumbarjua Canal area is another gem for spotting multiple kingfisher species.
Most public sanctuaries in Goa require only a small entrance fee (₹50-100), which you can pay at the gate. No advance permits needed! However, if you’re planning to bring professional photography gear with large lenses, some places like Bhagwan Mahavir might require a camera fee.
King cobras and other snakes exist but generally avoid humans. Always spray insect repellent on my clothes and skin before heading out.
Not highly recommended
During winter months, aim to be at the location by 6:30 AM when activity peaks. But here’s my secret: certain spots like Carambolim Lake are fantastic even if you arrive by 8 AM. And coastal birds along beaches like Morjim can be observed throughout the day.
The beaches of Morjim and Ashwem host gulls, terns, and plovers in season. The Nerul backwaters near Candolim and Baga wetlands offer excellent birding within minutes of beach resorts.
Absolutely! The Goa Bird Conservation Network organises regular weekend outings that welcome newbies.
Take photos from multiple angles if possible, or make quick notes about distinctive features. Then report your sighting on the eBird app, which scientists use to track bird populations. Your observation could be important for conservation efforts!
You can start with zero equipment other than your eyes and free resources like library books or bird ID apps. When you’re ready to invest a little, decent starter binoculars!
