In dry seasons, most of the waterbirds such as ducks and jacanas concentrate at a few sites such as Carambolim and are unlikely to be found at places such as Pilerne and Siolim. However, in 2008, Carambolim was also dry so the best remaining site for these species was Batim Lake.  In fact, since this lake is smaller, it is easier to work and may actually provide better views than at Carambolim. You can expect Lesser Whistling Duck, Cotton Pygmy-goose, Purple Swamphen and both jacanas here; Comb Duck, Spot-billed Duck and Darter are also possible and the nearby saltpans can be good for waders.

All the sites in this section are treated, in detail and with precise maps and directions, in my book ‘Finding Birds in North Goa’

If you have any information which you feel would help to update the book, please email me at dave@easybirder.co.uk and I’ll add your observations to these pages

To view more sites in North Goa click here

Batim Lake

Wednesday, 24 August 2011

This is a delightful spot, with exceptional concentrations of waterfowl.

Don’t forget to check site 4 in my book as it’s the best area for Pheasant-tailed Jacana.

Here’s a view of the saltpans at site 1.