Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary :

       Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary covers an area of 1.78 sq. km. is the smallest sanctuary in Goa and is located on the island of Chorao (A lovely island with small villages of Portuguese-style villas and white-washed churches ).

       It is covered by lush mangrove vegetation. Crisscrossed by a network of tributaries and inland streams.

       Named after Dr. Salim Ali, India's most celebrated Ornithologist. Best time to visit the sanctuary is during early hours of morning (around 7 am) or in the evening (around 5pm) to view the chirping bird life at its best.

       This Bird Sanctuary is home for a variety of coastal birds which inhabit Goa it also has a variety of mudskipper Fish and mangroves.

       Commonly sighted birds are kingfishers, eagles, kites, cormorants, egrets, parrots, herons etc. during the winter season birds like coots and pintails can also be sighted, Also many animals like otters, crocodiles, jackals etc. can be seen.

For permissions :

The chief wild life warden,
Forest department, junta house Panaji.

The sanctuary is opened throughout the year, The best season is Oct to Feb.

Getting There
       Located just 3 km from Panaji, on the southwestern tip of chorao along Mandovi River, this island can be reached by ferry boat from Ribandar (2 Km East of Panjim ).

Its worth a one day trip.