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Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
Introduction
Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is a premier protected wildlife reserve located in Goa, safeguarding rare bio-regions and indigenous forest species.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Goa |
| Districts | Forest Division of Goa |
| Year of Notification | 1978 (Wildlife Protection Act) |
| Total Area | 285.00 sq km |
| Landscape | Western Ghats (Sahyadri) tropical evergreen rainforest, foothill shola-forests, estuarine mangrove deltas, and coastal river basins. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Mandovi River, Zuari River, Sal River, Chapora River, Dudhsagar River |
| Nearest Airport | Manohar International Airport Mopa (GOX) / Dabolim Airport (GOI) – 30 to 55 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Madgaon Junction (MAO) / Thivim Railway Station (THVM) / Kulem (QLM) – 15 to 40 km |
| Best Time to Visit | October to April |
Location
The wildlife sanctuary lies in the Forest Division of Goa region of Goa. Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Goa.
History
Notified as a Wildlife Sanctuary under the Indian Wildlife Protection Act to conserve native wildlife corridors, watersheds, and forest ecosystems in Goa.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an exact area of 285.00 sq km, the sanctuary’s terrain features Western Ghats (Sahyadri) tropical evergreen rainforest, foothill shola-forests, estuarine mangrove deltas, and coastal river basins.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Teak (Tectona grandis), Anogeissus latifolia, Terminalia tomentosa, Boswellia serrata, Acacia catechu, Bamboo brakes..
Fauna
The sanctuary harbors a diverse array of mammalian, reptilian, and avian wildlife:
- Primary Mammals: Indian Leopard, Sloth Bear, Spotted Deer (Chital), Sambar Deer, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Golden Jackal, Striped Hyena, Jungle Cat, Porcupine.
- Predators & Carnivores: Indian Leopard, Sloth Bear, Jungle Cat, Golden Jackal, Striped Hyena.
- Herbivores & Ungulates: Sambar Deer, Chital, Barking Deer, Four-horned Antelope (Chousingha), Wild Boar.
- Reptiles & Amphibians: Indian Rock Python, Cobra, Russell’s Viper, Monitor Lizard, Star Tortoise.
Other Wild Animals & Avifauna
- Resident Woodland Birds: Crested Serpent Eagle, Indian Grey Hornbill, Indian Peafowl, Red Junglefowl, Paradise Flycatcher, Blue-throated Barbet.
- Raptors & Owls: Crested Hawk-Eagle, Black Kite, Spotted Owlet, Eurasian Eagle-Owl.
- Migratory Species: Pintail Duck, Cotton Teal, Common Kingfisher, Grey Heron, Little Egret.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is sustained by: Mandovi River, Zuari River, Sal River, Chapora River, Dudhsagar River.
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions and historic viewpoints include: Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Portuguese Heritage Churches, Spice Plantations.
Weather & Climate
Subtropical climate with pleasant winters (12°C to 26°C) and warm summers (24°C to 38°C).
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Manohar International Airport Mopa (GOX) / Dabolim Airport (GOI) – 30 to 55 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Madgaon Junction (MAO) / Thivim Railway Station (THVM) / Kulem (QLM) – 15 to 40 km
- Road Connectivity: Well connected via state highways and district road networks in Goa.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal season for visiting Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to April.
Accommodation
Forest Rest Houses and State Tourism eco-lodges near Forest Division of Goa.. Advance booking through official portals is recommended.
Conservation Highlights
Key conservation zone protecting native wildlife corridors and forest watersheds in Goa.
Visitor Tips
Obtain necessary entry permits from the local forest division office prior to visiting.
Did You Know?
- Official protected Wildlife Sanctuary in Goa notified under Indian wildlife conservation acts.
- Preserves key wildlife species including Indian Leopard and native avifauna.
- Covers an exact area of 285.00 sq km along the Mandovi River watershed.
Last Updated: August 2026