A New Digital Gateway to Alagoas Brancas
The Alagoas Brancas, a wetland area near Lagoa, Algarve, now boasts a dedicated website and digital brochure aimed at showcasing its rich fauna and flora. This initiative, spearheaded by the Almargem association, highlights the region's unique biodiversity, often referred to as a “biodiversity oasis in the heart of the Algarve.”
A Haven for Avifauna
Famed for its impressive avifauna, Alagoas Brancas is home to 143 registered bird species and many other iconic species that create a complex ecological web. Notably, it is the only location in Portugal where eight important botanical species coexist simultaneously, making it one of the few such places in Europe and worldwide.
Explore the New Platform
The new platform and digital brochure, available in both Portuguese and English, provide insights into various species such as the alligator lizard, spoonbill, otter, red fox, and the European giant salamander. The brochure also features rare flora like the water star and large-footed elatine, with the largest known population of the former found right here.
Engaging and Accessible Information
The species information is presented in a clear and accessible language, accompanied by scientific illustrations from artists including Davina Falcão and João T. Tavares. The brochure also outlines a code of conduct for visitors and tips for species observation.
Ongoing Conservation Efforts
The rich biodiversity of Alagoas Brancas has prompted various civic movements and entities to advocate for its protection over the years. The initiative, launched on December 12, is part of the project “Alagoas Brancas: from knowledge to action,” funded by the Environmental Fund. This project also included a series of actions throughout November aimed at raising public awareness of the area's natural wealth through school activities, public field trips, and volunteer efforts.
A History of Preservation
It's important to note that in 2017, parts of this wetland were threatened by a proposed commercial park project. However, local citizens, environmental organizations, and political parties successfully halted the development. This year, a contract was signed by the local government to transform the area into a natural park, in collaboration with the Environmental Fund.
Comments
Join Our Community
Sign up to share your thoughts, engage with others, and become part of our growing community.
No comments yet
Be the first to share your thoughts and start the conversation!