Lagoa Pequena Interpretive Space

About

Name of organisation

Management: Sesimbra City Council; ICNF (Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests);
Partners: SPEA (Portuguese Society for the Study of Birds (BirdLife Portugal) - collaboration in visitor activities)

Funding support

Sesimbra City Council

Number of staff

1

Number of visitors per year

4939,75

Overall aims of the centre

To contribute to the protection of avifauna, implement habitat management measures that meet the needs of birds, and promote local biodiversity.

Description of the centre

Inaugurated on February 2, 2012, World Wetlands Day and National Park Ranger Day, as part of a partnership between the Sesimbra Municipality and the Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests, the Lagoa Pequena Interpretation Space consists of several trails and observatories which allow visitors to appreciate a wide variety of birds that live and nest in this area.

Lagoa Pequena is the largest wetland in the Setúbal Peninsula and plays an important role in the life cycle and migration of several bird species.

It is classified as a Special Protection Area (SPA) under the Birds Directive 79/409/EEC, due to its crucial role in ensuring a network of wetlands that allow the movement of birds between nesting areas, particularly for the Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea), Little Bittern (Ixobrychus minutus), Little Egret (Egretta garzetta), and Purple Swamphen (Porphyrio porphyrio).

Lagoa Pequena is also included in the Fernão Ferro/Lagoa de Albufeira Site, which is part of the national list of Sites established under the Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC).

Lagoa Pequena was also included in the list of wetlands of international importance in 1996, under the commitments assumed by the Portuguese State in the Ramsar Convention (Decree-Law No. 101/80 of October 9). The diversity of bird species, the beauty of the landscape, and the welcoming conditions are ideal for birdwatching and nature photography enthusiasts.