Laguna de Oviedo – Dominican Republic

About

Laguna de Oviedo is located in Jaragua National Park, Pedernales Province, in the Dominican Republic. It is the largest lagoon in the Dominican Republic, being more than 10 kilometers in length, and the second largest body of water thereafter Lake Enriquillo. It is a major tourist destination. Though freshwater comes into this lagoon from the Bahoruco Mountain Range, it is mostly saline due to seawater coming into it from a karstic depression. It has a saltwater level three times higher than the sea. This lagoon is well known for its green water, which is caused by limestone sediments trickling into it as the underground water flow brings it in. It is famous for the unique plants, animals and birds that can be found here – some of which are endemic and endangered and can only be found here. Among the most common sightings are iguanas and flamingos. One of the most popular tourist activities here is taking a boat ride to see the flamingos, which is best done early in the morning due to heat. The coastline is home to several species of turtles. Plenty of other waterbirds and herons can be seen at the lagoon too, such as herons and egrets. It is part of a protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and is an important reserve area for bird conservation. Laguna Oviedo is also home to some of the most important mangroves in the country, a crucial ecosystem endemic to tropical parts of the world that helps with climate change, bird conservation, and general wildlife conservation. Owen photographed the American Flamingo, White-cheeked Pintail, Royal Tern, Snowy Egret, and Great Blue Heron. Owen traveled to this lagoon in January 2019.