Goa State

DR SALIM ALI BIRD SANCTUARY, CHORAO

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The area consists of mangrove vegetation. Mangrove ecosystems are among the most productive ones known to us. They provide refuge and breeding grounds for several varieties of fish and insects which fall at the base of the food-chain. The "Mangrove Scrub" type of vegetation that is found here occurs in small isolated areas along the banks of Mandovi and Mapusa rivers and also along the Cumbarjua canal. This Sanctuary is criss-crossed with a network of water channels. So movement is restricted to the duration of high tide if one wants to go by boats. However for canoes, the creeks are accessible even during low tides. A watch-tower has been erected in the Sanctuary for better viewing of birds. Apart from the several resident bieds, the Sanctuary alsohas some winter visitors like coots and pintails.

Eco-tourism Wing: The Wildlife Division proposes to start conducted tours through the water channels. It is envisaged that a group of 8-9 persons could be taken at one time. However, the exact modalities are yet to be worked out. Resource material and useful information could be acquired at the Range Forest Office at Campal, in Panaji.

Location: It is located at the western tip of the island of Chorao, which is just 5 km from Panaji city on the River Mandovi itself. The access is by ferry from a place called Ribandar jetty on the southern bank of River Mandovi.

Easiest Approach: Panaji : 5 km Margao : 40 km Bicholim : 18 km

Best time for visiting: September to June