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Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
Introduction
The breath-takingly beautiful beaches draw much of Goa's share of limelight. But the hot and humid tropical climate of Goa coupled with the presence of more than forty estuarine, eight marine and about ninety riverine islands is conducive to a lush vegetation which in turn supports a varied wildlife. The wildlife Sanctuaries in Goa are home to a wide variety of land marine and avian wildlife population which make them a popular haunt for all wildlife enthusiasts and photography buffs from all over the country. Spread over 86 sq. km, Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is Goa's second largest wildlife sanctuary and is situated on the border of Goa and Karnataka. It was established in 1969.
How to Reach
Located in the Canacona Taluka, in the south of Goa, the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary lies at about 2 km from Poinguinim, which is 10 km away from Chaudi, the main town of Cancacona along the NH17. It is 60 km from Panaji. Though reaching Cotigao is a bit cumbersome, the large expanse and dense foliage at the forest compensates marvelously for the trouble. Any of the buses running south on NH-17 to Karwar via Chaudi will drop one within 2-km of the Park Gates.
Flora & Fauna
The vegetation at Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary abounds in mostly moist-deciduous type, interspersed with semi-evergreen and evergreen patches.
Tigers and Leopards that once roamed this forest patch were hunted out long ago, while the Gazelles, Sloth Bears, Porcupines, Panthers and Hyenas that are said to lurk in the woods hardly ever appear before the visitors. However, at least two species of Monkey, a couple of Wild Boar and the Odd Gaur might appear before the lucky visitor.
Other Attractions
The Nature Interpretation Centre run by the Forest Department provides the tourists with valuable knowledge about the character of the forest. The tree top watch tower is a good place to get a bird's eye view of the forest.The Forest Department is equipped to provide snake proof camping sites and canvas tents. Those who want to rough it up spend the night on open cots and experience the nocturnal jungle ambience from inside a mosquito net.
Access
The best time to visit the park is between October and March. Night stay in the watch tower or the Forest Department rest house is prior to advance permission from the Deputy Conservator of Forests whose office is at 3rd floor, Junta House, Panaji.
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