Best time to travel to Goa

Birdwatching in Goa

Be amazed by the diversity and beauty of the world of birds

Best time: October–May

Birdwatching
Birdwatching
Birdwatching
Birdwatching
Birdwatching
Birdwatching
Birdwatching

Being blessed with a tropical climate, Goa provides perfect conditions for a huge diversity of local and migratory birds. This is also an ideal nesting ground for various species.

Great numbers of birds can be found on the fallow paddy fields. The tropical evergreen forest areas are home to several woodpecker species and owls.

Some of the most popular birding sites in Goa are the Beira Mar Baga Fields, Baga Hill, Morjim Beach, Lake Maem, Tikana and Chorao Island, Carambolim Lake, Santa Cruz, and others. During winter season, Curtorim becomes a place where you can meet rare migratory species.

Bee-eaters, Parakeets, Kingfishers, Egrets, Eagles, Doves, Flycatchers, Weavers, Koels, Sandpipers, Kites, Robins, Wagtails, Prinias, Snipes, Herons, Warblers, Orioles, Sparrows, Swifts, Mynas and lots lots of others can all be found here.

The major dominant birds of the Goan landscapes are Brahminy Kites, Black Kites, Oriental Magpies, Robins, Prinias, and Egrets. The best time for birding is early in the morning and at night. Birding in Goa can be an amazing adventure.

Practical info

When is the best time to visit Goa for birdwatching?

October to May is the right time to visit Goa for birdwatching. Goa offers tropical climate which not only suits the local birds but also the migratory birds. During this period, a variety of local and migratory birds can be witnessed. Even some rare migratory species can be seen in specific areas during the winter season. However, the heat and humidity during the summer months (June-September) can make it tough for spotting birds. Show more

Where are the most popular birding sites in Goa?

Beira Mar Baga Fields, Baga Hill, Morjim Beach, Lake Maem, Tikana, Chorao Island, Carambolim Lake, and Santa Cruz are some popular birding sites in Goa. The diverse landscape of these locations - like evergreen forests, fallow paddy fields, and wetland habitats - attracts several bird species. These places have a wide range of birds, which makes it convenient for bird enthusiasts to watch and photograph them. Show more

What are some of the distinctive bird species that can be found in Goa's evergreen forest areas?

Goa's evergreen forests are home to several distinct bird species, such as woodpeckers and owls. Birds like Shama, Emerald Dove, Flycatcher and Indian Pitta can also be found in the Bondla and Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary forests. The moist and misty environment of these forest areas is perfect for birdwatching and bird photography. The calm ambiance of the areas with their awe-inspiring beauty adds to the overall experience. Show more

What is the ideal time of the day for birding in Goa?

Early morning hours and night-time are the ideal time of the day for birding in Goa. The early morning hours provide the best light for bird photography, and birds are also active during this time. Night-time birding can help spot nocturnal birds. The heat and brightness make birdwatching a bit difficult during the day. Show more

Can rare migratory species be found in Goa's Curtorim during any specific season other than winter?

Although Curtorim is renowned for hosting several rare migratory species during the winter season, some resident birds like Malabar Grey Hornbill, Indian Robin, Asian Paradise-flycatcher, Indian Peafowl and Brahminy Starling can be witnessed during the monsoon months(June-September). The lush green environment and the rains make birdwatching during these months, an exceptional experience. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin