Archive · 12 Nov 2025
Bird Sightings and Natural Observations in Goa
Imagine you're visiting a new place because the air where you used to live was making you sick.
That's what the writer did, coming to Goa.
While there, they started noticing all the different kinds of birds, like the magpie robin singing short songs or the jungle mynas flying together quietly.
Some birds they knew from before are showing up again, while others are playing hide-and-seek.
The writer also saw colorful dragonflies and pretty butterflies near a pool and some flowers.
Even though it's not the best time for all the birds to sing, and some are hiding, the writer is happy to see them.
In the evenings, big rain clouds gather, and it rains hard for a little while, which is different from the bad air the writer left behind.
The author has relocated to Goa, seeking better air quality and respite from illness.
Various bird species, including magpie robins, sunbirds, owls, and kites, are observed in Goa, with some appearing more frequently than others.
Insect and butterfly activity, such as dragonflies and different types of butterflies, is noted around the swimming pool and garden.
The local weather features reversing monsoons, characterized by evening thunderheads, lightning, and brief, intense rainfall.
A stark contrast in air quality is highlighted between Goa (AQI 34) and Delhi (AQI 345+).
- Who
- The author and various bird species, insects, and butterflies.
- What
- Observations of bird behavior, presence, and calls, along with descriptions of insect and butterfly activity and local weather patterns, contrasting air quality in Goa with Delhi.
- When
- During the period when monsoons are reversing eastwards.
- Where
- Goa, India, specifically the author's location in Arpora.
- Why
- The author has sought refuge in Goa due to ill health and poor air quality in Delhi, leading to a detailed observation of the local natural environment.
- Location
- Goa, India
- Primary Subject
- Avian Life and Insect Activity
- Notable Birds Observed
- Magpie robin, purple rumped sunbirds, scops owl, barn owl, shikra, crows, jungle mynas, crow pheasant, tree pies, grey hornbills, little cormorants, egrets, black-rumped flamebacks, white-throated kingfisher, paradise flycatcher, plum-headed parakeets, brahminy kites, koels, warblers
- Notable Insects/Butterflies
- Dragonflies, common mormon, common rose, crimson rose, common palmfly
- Weather Phenomenon
- Reversing monsoons, thunderheads, lightning, heavy rainfall
- AQI Comparison
- Goa (Arpora): 34 vs. Delhi: 345+