Laguna Cartagena Wildlife Refuge

Laguna Cartagena is a shallow freshwater lagoon in the Lajas Valley, drained for agriculture in the past and now managed as a national wildlife refuge with the surrounding Sierra Bermeja hills. It is among the most productive bird sites in Puerto Rico: resident West Indian whistling ducks and endemic species, plus migrants passing through from October onward. An observation tower overlooks the lagoon and trails run into the hills behind, whose rocks are counted among the oldest in the Caribbean; the endangered yellow-shouldered blackbird has been recorded here. Most of the lagoon is now choked with cattail.

What's there

• The lagoon - shallow fresh water with reedbed and waterbirds.
• The observation tower - a raised platform overlooking the water.
• The Sierra Bermeja - dry hills behind the lagoon with their own species.
• The migrants - passage birds using the valley from October onward.

When to go

November to April is the migration and wintering season and the best for birds. Early morning is when activity is highest. Summer is hot and the lagoon can be low.

Good to know

Water levels vary and the lagoon has been very low or dry in some periods. Facilities are minimal with no visitor centre. The access road and trails can be overgrown.

Nearby

Cabo Rojo is west, and Boquerón is northwest.

Key facts