Captain's Lagoon

Category: Nature > Lagoon

District: Açores > São Roque do Pico > São Roque do Pico

Location

Lagoa do Capitão is located on Pico Island, within the town and municipality of São Roque do Pico. It is situated on the island's central plateau, at an altitude of around 826 meters. This elevated position offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, namely the town of São Roque do Pico and the island's north coast. It is a place where one can observe the Channel separating Pico and São Jorge islands.

Landscape and Scenic Element

Characterized as the largest lagoon on Pico Island, Lagoa do Capitão extends over an area of approximately 2.6 hectares and reaches a maximum depth of 4.5 meters. Its tranquility and elevation allow for the Pico Mountain to be reflected in its calm waters on clear days, creating a striking image and a sense of natural vastness.

This lagoon is an essential part of the island's hydrological system, functioning as an important freshwater reserve, fundamental for the balance and maintenance of local ecosystems. Its importance is recognized by its classification as a Protected Water Body, integrated into the Central Pico Protected Landscape Area, which reinforces its environmental and scenic value.

Biodiversity and Nature Observation

The surroundings of Lagoa do Capitão are a true treasure for nature observation, with abundant endemic Macaronesian vegetation. Among the species that thrive in this area are Erica azorica, cedar, laurel, and Azorean mahogany, which contribute to the richness of the landscape. In the vicinity of the lagoon, the fault scarp serves as a habitat for several unique flora species.

Throughout the year, the lagoon is a point of interest for birdwatching, attracting various species that find refuge here. It is possible to spot grey herons, yellow-legged gulls, blackbirds, wagtails, common canaries, Azorean chaffinches, common teals, Eurasian wigeons, common woodcocks, common snipes, common moorhens, buzzards, Azorean woodpigeons, Eurasian sparrowhawks, common linnets, and Azorean common whitethroats. Occasionally, rarer species also appear, such as the American wigeon, blue-winged teal, ring-necked duck, scaup, American bittern, and American coot.

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