The Goan harbingers of rain

GT Digital

TELLTALE SIGN

Sighting a certain species of birds and blooming of wildflowers are telltale signs of the forthcoming monsoon season

Goa|Wildflowers|Rain indicators | Photo: Asavari Kulkarni

EARLY BIRD

If you happen to sight this migratory bird, Pied Crested Cuckoo (locally known as chatak), then the rain is not far behind.

Goa|Chatak|Rain indicators | Photo: Wikipedia

IN BLOOM

Amaryllis is a species of garden flower which blooms before monsoon, and is considered harbinger of rain.

Goa|Wildflowers|Rain indicators | Photo: Asavari Kulkarni

RAIN SIGN

Another indicator of rain is Trombidiidae, also known as red velvet mites or rain bugs. These are eight-legged arthropods found in plant litter and are known for their bright red color.

Goa|Insects|Rain indicators | Photo: Asavari Kulkarni

GARDEN BEAUTY

Rain lilies, found in most Goan gardens, also bloom just before the beginning of the monsoon.

Goa|Wildflowers|Rain indicators

GLOWING BEAUTIES

Fireflies around the edges of the forests in summer are also indicators of the forthcoming rainy season.

Goa|Fireflies|Rain indicators | The Goan Girl

CROAK & TELL

Bullfrogs come out in large numbers after the first pre-monsoon showers. Their loud croaking, which is meant to attract females for mating, is an indication of the approaching monsoon season.

Goa|Bullfrog|Rain indicators | Photo: Parag Rangnekar

NEXT: Your guide to visiting Goa on a tight budget