Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Spread over 1.78 sq.kms, this sanctuary is located on the western end of the island of Chorao along River Mandovi near Panaji.

The whole area has Mangrove vegetation of 14 different species and is covered by a network of criss-cross water channels having tidal variations. It is a suitable habitat for plankton, shrimps, prawns and small fish.

During winter, between November and January, migratory birds flock in thousands to feed on the banks of river Mandovi, adjoining the sanctuary. Apart from that, a number of resident birds and a few animals can also be seen inside the sanctuary.

Watch Towers provide an excellent view of the sanctuary and its birdlife. To get a feel of mangrove vegetation boats and canoes can be hired run by private people from Chorao jetty.

With the variety of colourful resident & migratory birds, mangrove flora & fauna, and the lush green surrounding with the Mandovi water flowing through the creeks, particularly during low tide it is a feast to the eyes to this totally different ecosystem and feel its enchanting beauty amidst the calls of birds break the silence which mes-merise the visitors one can wake on. Raised pathways camouflaged by mangrove vegetation to commune with nature. A boat ride in the early misty hours of the morning can be magical. An intricate network of shimmering waterways embroider the richly green lanscape adding charm to every details of the mangrove.

Location
This Sanctuary lies along the Eastern border of Goa on the Western Ghats. The National Highway, NH-4A almost divides the Sanctuary in two parts. Within the Sanctuary lies the newly constituted National Park. This lies entirely to one side of the road.

Distance
Chorao Island is 5 km from Panaji, Margao is 40 km away, and Bicholim is at a distance of 18 km. The sanctuary is located on the west end of the island. It is accessible by ferry from Ribandar, which is on the southern bank of the river Mandovi.

How to get there?
By Road:
The Forest Department operates one motor boat to take visitors inside the sanctuary. It is available from the Chorao ferry jetty, which can be reached by ferry plying from Ribandar. Distances to Ribandar from some of the places are given below: It is better to hire private boats & canoes operated from Chorao jetty to avoid loss of time in waiting for forest department boat.

Panaji - 3 kms
Margao - 35 kms
Bicholim - 18 kms
Carambolim Rly Stn - 12 kms

Transport
The Forest Department is contemplating to run a bus service from TISKA to BONDLA everyday, except Thursday.
Dep. Tiska 11.00 & 19.30 hrs
Dep. Bondla 07.30 & 17.45 hrs
What you can experience?
Boat and Canoe Excursion. As tidal water impose some restrictions on the movement inside the sanctuary, you can use boats during high tide, and canoes during low tide. Boats and canoes are available on hire. Motor boats are not allowed to operate inside the sanctuary to avoid noise pollution.

Birds Eye-View- You can go up the watch-tower, and get an excellent view of the sanctuary and its wildlife.

Birds Feeding: Take a look at birds feeding in the river waters. You will enjoy it.

Besides birds at Dr. Salim Ali Sanctuary, one may stroll through the magnificent Mangrove forests in tranquility. Pneumato-phores (aerial respiratory roots) are clearly visible during the low tides. The main species are Rhizophora, Avicennia, Brugueria, Exocaria, Sonneratia etc.