Bhagawan mahaveer wildlife Sanctuary, Molem      The sanctuary set in the foot hills of picturesque Western Ghats, is the largest sanctuary in the state and spreads across 240 sq.km. Often viewed Animals include gaur (Bos gaurus - the Indian Bison), sambar, spotted deer, slender loris, jungle cats, leopards and monkeys, malayan giant squirrels, wild dogs, pythons and cobras. Birdlife includes drongos, minivets, cuckoos, woodpeckers and barbets. During summers i.e April & may, the park is occasionally visited by elephants and tigers, who wander in from neighboring state of Karnataka. The best time to observe wildlife is during dawn or late evening and excellent site to view wild animals and birds is "The Devil's Canyon View Point". Cotigao wildlife Sanctuary      This second largest sanctuary of Goa and was established in 1969 and covers an area of 105 sq. km., which is the most densely forested part of the state. Common sites are of animals like wild boar, deer, gaur and monkeys, and birds such as woodpecker, Malabar crested lark and white-eyed-eagle. The Talpona river flows through the park. To Experience a rural life you can visit the small settlements of Velip and Kunbis tribes inside the park, The Galjibaga river runs along the south-estern boundry of Cotigao santuary.BR> Another tranquil location is the Bela lake, 2.5 km from the eco-tourism complex, and the ancient temple at Kuskem. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary      Spreading over 8 sq km., Bondla, is the smallest of the Goan wildlife Sanctuaries and is situated in the lush foothills of the Western Ghats. Many attractions such as mini zoo, Deer, Safari park, gardens, botanical gardens and eco-tourism cottages are key features here. Elephant rides are also available which are quite popular. It is a fine place to escape from the beach culture of coastal Goa. The sanctuary remains closed on Thursdays.