according to legend, the name of the island derives from the portuguese word for the bird droppings that cover the rocks with brilliant white; the atobá, a seabird found in abundant numbers on the island, seems to be the culprit.

this guano facade also contributes to cagarra being more noticeable from the surrounding area.

while the largest cove is on the east end of the island, the best climbing is found at the northwest end, in the form of a nearly 90º rock wall.