Maina-Raia is notable for its avian diversity: species ranging from northern pintails and grey herons to other waterfowl and waders, with rare sightings such as pectoral sandpipers have been documented by birding groups. These wetlands are increasingly used for birdwatching and environmental education, reflecting a growing awareness of their ecological value. Conservation efforts include community engagement through biodiversity walks and calls from local activists to protect these habitats, as well as formal recognition of Raia and associated lakes for potential nomination under wetland conservation frameworks like the Ramsar Convention. Despite this, threats such as siltation from surrounding land use, agrochemical runoff affecting water quality, pressures from development and alteration of traditional khazan systems, and lack of formal protected status for many wetlands in Goa put pressure on their ecological integrity. Effective conservation will require combined actions by local communities, government wetland authorities, and civil society to maintain hydrological functions and biodiversity of Maina-Raia for future generations.
Bird Walk at Maina-Raia Wetland, Quepem, Goa
- Goa
- 21 December, 2025
- Rs 200/- per head
- Fee collected goes entirely to the bird guide. Ataavi does not retain or profit from this amount.
About Maina-Raia Wetland
The Maina-Raia wetland, part of the larger Maina-Curtorim-Raia wetland complex in South Goa, is a seasonally inundated freshwater habitat that lies amidst the rural khazan lands and agricultural fields near the villages of Maina, Raia and Curtorim. This wetland is recognised as one of South Goa’s important waterbird habitats and is regularly included in state waterbird surveys such as the Goa Waterfowl Count, showing its role in the regional wetland network. Its habitat is a mosaic of shallow ponds, marshy patches with water lilies and grasses, and adjoining cultivated lands that fill during the monsoon, providing key feeding and resting grounds for both resident and long-distance migratory birds. The rich aquatic and semi-aquatic vegetation supports a varied community of flora typical of Goa’s lowland wetlands, including emergent grasses and seasonal water plants, which in turn sustains diverse fauna from insects and fish to waterfowl.
Partnered with
Bird Guide: Jalmesh Karapurkar
He is the coordinator of the Goa Bird Atlas initiative and serves as the eBird Reviewer for Goa, playing a key role in documenting avian biodiversity across the state. He also runs an inclusive ecotourism initiative aimed at making nature and wildlife experiences accessible and enriching for all.
Bird walk Location
Common birds of Maina-Raia Wetland
Maina-Raia Wetland is a vibrant haven for waterbirds, attracting an impressive mix of resident and migratory species throughout the year and 279 species recorded so far. Graceful ducks such as the Lesser Whistling-Duck, Ruddy Shelduck, Cotton Pygmy-Goose, Garganey, Northern Shoveler, and Green-winged Teal glide across its calm waters. The surrounding marshes shelter striking species like the Gray-fronted Green-Pigeon, Pied Cuckoo, Gray-headed Swamphen, and White-breasted Waterhen. Along the mudflats and shoreline, a lively assortment of waders—including Black-winged Stilts, Pacific Golden-Plovers, Little Ringed Plovers, Red-wattled Lapwings, jacanas, godwits, snipes, sandpipers, redshanks, greenshanks, ruffs, and curlew sandpipers—creates a dynamic and ever-changing birding experience. Together, these species make Maina-Raia a must-visit destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers alike.
Lesser Whistling-Duck
Ruddy Shelduck
Cotton Pygmy-Goose
Northern Shoveler
Green-winged Teal
Gray-fronted Green Pigeon
Grey-headed Swamphen
Black-winged Stilt
Little Ringed Plover
Pheasant-tailed Jacana
Gull-billed Tern
Blue-tailed Bee-eater
Garganey
Pied Cuckoo
White-breasted Waterhen
Pacific Golden-Plover
Black-tailed Godwit
Common Sandpiper
Common Snipe
Red-wattled Lapwing
- Fee collected goes entirely to the bird guide. Ataavi does not retain or profit from this amount.
