Santa María del Lago, Protected wetland in Engativá, Colombia.
Santa María del Lago is a protected wetland in Bogotá with water and native plants at elevation. The place offers wooden observation platforms and walking paths throughout the protected area.
The area gained protected status in 2003 to preserve its natural functions. This action proved important for managing water in Bogotá's urban environment.
The name references the Virgin Mary and the water that defines this space. Local groups use it today to teach visitors how nature and urban life connect.
Wooden platforms and paths guide visitors through the site for nature watching. Early morning is the best time for bird watching when animals are most active.
A rare dragonfly species called Ischnura cruzi lives here and exists in only a few places. At the same time, the water naturally filters pollutants from the city.
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