Our state has been blessed with a diverse variety of forest types, picturesque valleys, imposing hills and of course a network of rivers and their tributaries that together support and sustain the biodiversity of our land. The monsoons is a time to appreciate and be aware of this diversity and Goan does visit a natural habitat during the monsoon spell, be it with friends or family either for a trail or trek or for an outing or a picnic. It is but essential that some Do’s and Don’ts are followed whilst visiting any natural area as this would not only conserve the area for the future but would also help one be safe as well as aware of the forest or natural space that one is using. I am listing some basic points that need to be followed and I hope all those who travel to weekend getaways in our natural habitats across the state would consider these.

• Always stay on the paths and roads. It is very easy to lose your way in the thick forests, along river courses and on hilly trails.
• Always take a guide or a naturalist along on a nature trail.  They know the forest well and can facilitate nature’s wonders for you’re viewing and appreciation.
• Wildlife has the right of way in any forest habitat. Stop in your tracks or halt your vehicle if you sight any wild life and enjoy their beauty and majesty.
• Most wildlife has a keen sense of hearing and move away from disturbance. So do not talk loudly, tread carefully and refrain from noisy activities.
• Any loud music is prohibited in a natural habitat including cassette players, Discman’s, etc. as it disturbs the tranquility of the place and interferes with natural bird song that fills the air throughout the day.
• Most wildlife has a keen sense of smell and sight. So do not use strong perfumes and deodorant and wear earth-colored clothes, which would gel with the surrounding.
• Do not throw human waste/litter in the forests. It stands out in the natural litter, encourages scavengers and result in human-wildlife conflicts.  
• Always co-operate with the field staff of a Protected Area, local villagers and guides, as they are there to conserve the forest as well as to provide you an experience of a lifetime. Certain instructions and rules are made taking in view your security and the need to retain the sanctity of the forests.
• Every natural habitat has in its realm a spectrum of wild flowers and plants, which are priceless treasures of nature. Do not pluck any wild flowers, break or collect any plant or animal life, either dead or alive as it causes irreversible ecological damage to the habitats. Take back only memories and leave only footprints behind.
• Observe and obey safety rules, do’s and don’ts and the guidelines given by the Forest staff in a Protected Area at all times as they are there to care for your safety as well as that of the denizens of the forest.
• Report any instances of wildlife crime, habitat destruction, eve teasing or any other unsocial behavior to the concerned authorities immediately.
• Avoid the use of plastic in any natural setting – plastic is a menace especially in natural habitats like waterfalls and springs, forests and lakes. The entire Protected Area network of Goa has been declared as a plastic free zone.
• Always buy an entry ticket for entry into a Protected Area like a Wildlife sanctuary or National Park.
• Refrain from creating new paths and roads, driving into designated forest areas, clearing any area for seating or building a fire- all these acts not only irreversibly damage niche wildlife habitats but also contribute to rise in human-wildlife conflicts in the long run.
• Do not photograph wildlife in such a manner that it would disorient or disturb the subject in any manner. Respect all life forms and learn to practice non-intrusive photography or filming.
• Learn and get inspired by Mother Nature and her natural wonders, her subtle surprises and gentle birdsong. Observe and appreciate little wonders including insects and birds, flowers and trees. Let Nature relax rejuvenate and recreate that special bond you share with her at every trail and visit into Goa’s natural lands.

Remember, we have only inherited our natural heritage from our ancestors and it is our duty to hand it over to our future generation the same way we inherited it. Keep the faith.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
I am a wildlife ecologist working in the Western Ghats of the states of Goa, Karnataka and Maharashtra. Contact me at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . Blog: http://www.goawildwatch.blogspot.com/, http://www.wildernest-goa.com/, http://www.swapnagandha.com/.