This trip heads upstream to catch the Crocs in their riverside habitat. Let your hair down and toast to the two scenic islands of Chorao and Divar. What will evoke your keen interest is the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary located among the Mangroves and the flat bottom ferries that transport people and vehicles across the river. The flora and fauna on this trip is amazing.

John Rodrigues recalls that Mugger crocodiles exist only in two locations in Goa –one in Opa River and another in the brackish waters of Cumbarjua. The huge, fierce looking crocodiles with dagger-like teeth are seen on the banks of the village of Cumbarjua. The 15 kms Cumbarjua canal connects the two main rivers of Goa---the Mandovi and the Zuari. The ‘mugger’ crocodiles are said to be less harmless than their salt-water cousins who prey on livestock and sometimes humans. It is believed that about 100 years ago, some of these crocodiles were floated in the waters to keep away enemies.

The vibrant mangrove habitat serves as a spawning ground for fish, prawns, mollusks, birdlife and crocodiles. Cumbarjua canal holds about 40-50 Crocodiles. In the Durbhatwadi village along the canal the crocs are even worshipped on the day of the new moon in January, as the guardian spirit of the community. Most of the Cumbarjua crocodiles are used to human presence. If anybody ventures too close, the crocs just jump into water and move away. These crocodiles are visible since they are cold-blooded, and need to spend a lot of time in the sun, well camouflaged on the mud banks. They are a hole-nesting species, and lay their eggs on the water’s edge. The owner of John’s boat tours, Mr. John Rodrigues shares his extensive knowledge of crocs, fish and birdlife with tourists on the trip.