Paúl Lagoon

Category: Nature > Lagoon

District: Açores > Lajes do Pico > Lajes do Pico

Location

Lagoa do Paúl is located on Pico Island, in the interior of the municipality of Lajes do Pico, specifically in the parish of Ribeirinha. It is situated at a considerable altitude, close to 800 meters. Its position is within the island's central plateau, a vast area dotted with volcanic formations and green landscapes.

Reaching the lagoon involves traveling along paths that lead into the island's interior, moving away from coastal and inhabited areas. The surroundings are dominated by nature, with wide views over the Azorean plateau, providing a sense of tranquility and isolation.

Natural Environment

The environment at Lagoa do Paúl is markedly natural and subject to the characteristics of its altitude. Fog is a frequent element, enveloping the landscape in a veil that sometimes gives it a mysterious and serene air. When the weather is clearer, the contours of the volcanic hills surrounding the lagoon and the vast green spaces of the plateau are revealed.

The area around the lagoon features typical mountain and wetland vegetation, with pastures that include puddles, rushes, and cedar and heather scrub. The conditions created by the altitude, which favors condensation, contribute to maintaining the lagoon's water level, although this may decrease during the summer months.

Biodiversity and Birdwatching

This location is of particular interest to wildlife enthusiasts, especially birdlife. Lagoa do Paúl and its surroundings are a significant habitat for various bird species, attracting both residents and migratory visitors. The wetlands and surrounding vegetation offer shelter and food.

A variety of aquatic and terrestrial birds adapted to this type of environment can be observed. The diversity of species present varies according to the time of year, with spring and summer being favorable for seeing resident birds, while autumn and winter bring migratory species. In addition to birds, the area is also a habitat for insects and other forms of wildlife, such as the Azorean bat, which can sometimes be observed during the day.

A Glimpse into the Past

Beyond its natural value, Lagoa do Paúl holds memories of past times linked to the daily life of the local community. In the past, this lagoon served as a place where women from the parish would go to wash clothes.

This task, which involved traveling some distance, transformed into a moment of social gathering and sharing, a human aspect that contrasts with the natural quietude that now prevails at the site.

Ecological and Geological Importance

Lagoa do Paúl and the surrounding area are recognized for their importance to nature conservation. They are integrated into various protection classifications, namely the Caveiro Partial Natural Forest Reserve and areas of the Natura 2000 Network and the Central Plateau Ramsar Site, which highlight their value for biodiversity and habitats.

This site is also an integral part of the Azores Geopark, a UNESCO Global Geopark, fitting into the geological context of the Achada plateau, a significant volcanic formation on Pico Island. The preservation of this lagoon and its ecosystem is fundamental for the conservation of the unique natural heritage of the Azores.

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