Caiado Lagoon

Category: Nature > Lagoon

District: Açores > São Roque do Pico > Prainha

Location:

Lagoa do Caiado is located on Pico Island, in the municipality of São Roque do Pico. It is situated on the island's central plateau, at a considerable altitude, approximately 820 meters above sea level. This location is part of a classified natural area, being included in the Lagoa do Caiado Partial Natural Forest Reserve.

Its location on the plateau, surrounded by volcanic cones, contributes to the characteristic surrounding landscape and the unique environment found here.

The Lagoon:

It is the largest lagoon on Pico Island, extending over approximately 5 hectares. It stands out for the quality of its water, which has an ecological status considered excellent. This condition is partly due to the fact that the lagoon is a public water supply source, which contributed to the cessation of certain activities in its catchment area, thus preserving its aquatic environment.

Surrounding Vegetation:

The surroundings of Lagoa do Caiado are distinguished by their dense and luxuriant vegetation. This characteristic results from the high humidity levels experienced at this altitude. Visitors to the site can observe various species of endemic Macaronesian flora, such as the Azores juniper, heather, Azorean holly, Azorean laurel, Azorean blueberry, sweet pittosporum, and Azorean mock-privet, which compose the verdant landscape.

Bird Watching Spot:

Lagoa do Caiado is a place of interest for those dedicated to bird watching. The habitat diversity attracts various species, making a visit an opportunity to spot aquatic birds and other resident or migratory species.

It is possible to observe, for example, woodcocks, common snipe, Eurasian teals, grey herons, wagtails, and the Azores chaffinch. The autumn and winter months, from October to March, are particularly suitable for observing aquatic birds in the lagoon.

Natural Scenery:

The scenery around Lagoa do Caiado provides an experience of contact with nature. The vastness of the lagoon mirrored in the verdant landscape, marked by the presence of volcanic cones in the surroundings, creates a serene environment conducive to contemplation.

It is important to note that, given the high altitude, weather conditions can change rapidly, with the presence of fog or wind being common, elements that sometimes add a mystical atmosphere to the place.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt