Lake GabouLake Gabou is a lake and wetlands area in the Tagant Region of Mauritania.HistoryHistorically, the lake and the basin around it were also known as Tammourt en Naaj or Hoorewendu, meaning 'head of the swamp' in Pulaar, and sheltered a population of hippopotami.EnvironmentThe lake captures runoff from the Tagant plateau and supports a range of indigenous flora and fauna, including date and doum palms, two economically important palm species, as well as African baobabs and desert roses. It is also a refuge for West African crocodiles and migrating birds. It was designated a Ramsar site in 2009. The lake has been designated an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International because it supports a significant population of wintering ruffs.