Description

Also known as “Dlo Gaye,” Trou Caïman (Cayman Hole) is a shallow freshwater lake covering approximately 16 square kilometers. Located 20 km northeast of Port-au-Prince, on the Plaine du Cul-de-sac, at an elevation of 10 meters, the lake stretches approximately 6 km in length and 2.7 km in width. Along with Lake Azuéi and the Enriquillo wetlands in the Dominican Republic, it is part of an ecoregion of exceptional biological value. Trou Caïman is fed by slightly brackish (depending on rainfall) and eutrophic (greenish) waters

Biodiversity

The Trou Caïman pond is one of Haiti’s Key Biodiversity Zones (ZCB). It is also an Important Area for Bird Conservation (ZICO). More than a hundred species of wild birds find their refuge in Trou Caïman. Despite the decline of many of its bird species, due to uncontrolled hunting and habitat degradation, this lagoon is recognized by Bird Life International and the Hispaniola Ornithological Society as an area for observation of aquatic birds (freshwater) such as: little egrets (Egretta garzetta), american flamingos (Phoenicopterus ruber), common gallinule (Gallinula galeata), pied-billed grebe (Podilymbus podiceps), Green Heron (Butorides virescens), American White Ibis (Eudocimus albus), common moorhen (Gallinula chloropus), chihuahuan ravens (Corvus cryptoleucus), etc. Trou Caïman is a privileged habitat for endemic and seasonally migratory bird species from Cuba and the Bahamas.

Ecotourism potential

Trou Caïman is a magnificent region located 12 km from Thomazeau, an exceptional village whose “musical trees” line both sides of the road that leads to it. An enchanting place due to its harmonious natural environment, but exclusively for the use of walkers; it stands out for a plant universe crossed by vast watercourses that offers a fabulous image, even for the most hasty visitor. The absolute calm of this place allows one to contemplate the splendor and the essences of this area.