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.
Benefits of bird watching:
Mental health perks
- Stress reliever: Birdwatching is a proven stress reliever. It helps in boosting cortisol levels in the human body. So, when you are spotting that elusive flycatcher, your mind won’t be stressing about tomorrow’s meeting.
- Mindfulness: Watching birds makes you relax. It slows down everything around you and helps you to be present. You don’t need meditation apps when nature is your therapist.
- Happy vibes: Nature is the cure to depression and anxiety and science backs this statement too. When you spot a colourful bird, you will no longer be sad.
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.
Best Top 5 Birdwatching Destinations in Goa:
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.
1. Chorao Island:
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 Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
– Local breakfast with a mesmerising view
– Rarest temple in Goa
– Local Tavern Visit
– Trek to Seminary
2. Divar Island:
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.
3. Carambolim Lake:
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 who 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 is 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.
4. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary:
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.
5. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary:
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife 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.
Common Birds for Beginners
Everyone starts somewhere! These beauties are relatively easy to spot and identify:
- Indian Roller: This bird is like nature’s version of a painter’s palette gone wild! When it flies, the electric blue wings will make you gasp.
- White-throated Kingfisher:With its chocolate head and dazzling blue back, this bird looks like it’s dressed for a fancy party. Look near water bodies!
- Red-whiskered Bulbul: That punk-rock crest and red cheek patch make this garden visitor unmistakable. They’re not shy either.
- Black Kite: These urban survivors glide overhead in most towns. Their distinctive forked tail is a dead giveaway.
- Asian Koel: You’ll hear this bird’s persistent “koo-Ooo” call EVERYWHERE during summer. Spotting the glossy black male or the spotted female is always satisfying.
Rare and Exotic Species
Ready for a challenge? Finding these elusive birds feels like winning the lottery:
- Malabar Trogon: Picture this: a bird with a crimson belly, blue face, and yellow beak sitting perfectly still in the forest. It’s like a living painting!
- Indian Pitta – Called the “nine-colored bird” locally, this little ground-dweller is like a walking rainbow. Their call sounds like someone whistling for a taxi.
- Flame-throated Bulbul – This Western Ghats special with its blazing yellow throat will definitely earn you bragging rights among fellow birders.
- Nilgiri Wood Pigeon – Don’t let the “pigeon” part fool you—this forest beauty with its slate-grey and rusty plumage is nothing like city pigeons!
Tips for Successful Birdwatching
Ready to spot some feathered wonders? Here’s how to level up your birding game:
Gear You’ll Actually Need (No Need to Break the Bank!)
- Binoculars – Your most important investment! 8×42 is the sweet spot for beginners. Think of them as your bird-spotting superpower.
- Field Guide – Whether app or book, you need something to help ID your birds. The Merlin Bird ID app—it’s like having an expert in your pocket!
- Comfy Clothes – Think earth tones (birds notice bright colors), quiet fabrics (no swishy windbreakers!), and appropriate for the weather. Layers are your friend!
- Snacks and Water – Hangry birding is bad birding. Pack quiet snacks (no crunchy chips!) and plenty of water.
How to Identify Birds by Sight and Sound
Spotting is one thing—knowing what you’re looking at is another ball game:
Visual ID Hacks
- Size– Is it sparrow-sized? Pigeon-sized? Crow-sized? Eagle-sized? This is your first clue!
- The Unique Bits – Focus on standout features—does it have an eye-ring, wing bars, a fancy crest, or a distinctive bill shape?
- Color Patterns – Where are the colors located? Is the throat different from the belly? Are there wing patches that show during flight?
- What’s It Doing? – Is it hopping on the ground, soaring in circles, or hiding in leaves? Behavior is a huge ID clue!
- Where’s It Hanging Out? – Birds are picky about neighborhoods. A bird in a marsh is probably different from one in a forest canopy.
Ethical Birdwatching (Don’t Be That Person!)
Let’s keep it fun for birds and humans alike:
- The Zoom Principle – Let your binoculars do the walking! Stay back and zoom in rather than chasing birds for a closer look.
- Stick to Trails – Creating new paths damages habitat and might disturb ground-nesting birds.
- Nests Are Off-Limits – Getting too close to nests can stress parent birds and even cause them to abandon their babies. Not cool!
- Easy on the Playback – Playing bird calls on your phone to attract birds might seem clever, but it can seriously stress them out during breeding season.
- Take Only Photos – Leave everything as you found it—or better!
- Know the Rules – Some reserves have specific guidelines. A quick check beforehand saves headaches.
Recording Your Observations
Digital Bird Journals
- eBird – “The most popular of all bird recording apps”. Your sightings help scientists AND satisfy your inner data nerd!
- BirdLog – Perfect for quick field entries when you’re on the go.
- iNaturalist – Great for recording all wildlife, not just birds.
Birdwatching Through the Seasons
Each season brings its own bird bonanza:
- Winter – Resident birds become easier to spot as leaves fall, and special winter visitors arrive from northern regions.
- Summer – Baby birds are everywhere! Watch for parents frantically feeding hungry chicks and juveniles testing their wings.
- Monsoon – Not the most recommended season but good for species like the dwarf Kingfisher
Weather-Wise Birding Tips
- Rainy Days – Check sheltered spots like dense trees and overhangs where birds wait out showers.
- Scorching Weather – Go early morning or late afternoon when birds (and you!) won’t suffer from heat stroke.
- Windy Days – Birds hunker down on the protected sides of hills and in thick bushes.
Conclusion
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!
For the best bird watching experience, Nature’s Nest is the go-to place as it offers an unforgettable eco-tourism experience. Book your stay today and immerse yourself in the magic of birdwatching, nature walks, and photography.
FAQ’S
What equipment do I absolutely need to start birdwatching?
Honestly? Just your eyes and curiosity to begin with! If upgrading, get 8×42 binoculars and a field guide/app for your region.
When’s the best time to go birdwatching if I’m not a morning person?
Late afternoon until sunset is excellent, or try finding nocturnal species in evening. Even midday can be productive near water sources or during migration seasons.
What’s the absolute best season for birdwatching in Goa?
Winter (November-February) is ideal with migratory birds joining residents, creating incredible diversity. Weather is perfect with cool mornings and pleasant days.
Are there any birdwatching spots in Goa that tourists typically miss?
Curtorim’s wetlands host amazing birds like Cotton Pygmy Goose. The Cumbarjua Canal area is another gem for spotting multiple kingfisher species.
Do I need special permits for birdwatching in Goa’s sanctuaries?
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.
Are there any dangerous animals I should watch out for while birdwatching in Goa?
King cobras and other snakes exist but generally avoid humans. Always spray insect repellent on my clothes and skin before heading out.
Can I go birdwatching in Goa during the monsoon season?
Not highly recommended
How early do I really need to wake up for good bird watching in Goa?
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.
Are there good bird-watching opportunities near popular Goa beaches?
The beaches of Morjim and Ashwem host gulls, terns, plovers in season. The Nerul backwaters near Candolim and Baga wetlands offer excellent birding within minutes of beach resorts.
Can beginners join organised bird watching groups in Goa?
Absolutely! The Goa Bird Conservation Network organises regular weekend outings that welcome newbies.
What should I do if I spot a rare or unusual bird in Goa?
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!
Is birdwatching an expensive hobby that will drain my wallet?
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!