Wildlife
Wildlife Encounters And Species Notes
Browse wildlife entries, sightings and photographic highlights.
Wildlife Notes
Andean condorVultur gryphusThe Andean condor is one of the largest flying birds in the world, with a vast wingspan and distinctive black-and-white plumage. It is a New World vulture found along the Andes and parts of western South America, where it soars over mountains, cliffs and open landscapes in search of carrion. In Patagonia, seeing condors circling above the valleys and ridges is one of the great wildlife highlights.
Austral NegritoLessonia rufaThe Austral Negrito is a small insect-eating bird commonly found in open grasslands and scrub across southern South America. Males are strikingly black with chestnut backs, while females and juveniles are grey-brown with warm buff tones. In Patagonia, these active little birds are frequently seen around lakeshores, roadsides and open countryside, where they hunt insects from low perches or the ground.
Black-necked swanCygnus melancoryphusThe Black-necked swan is the largest waterfowl native to South America. Easily recognised by its striking black neck and white body, it inhabits lakes, lagoons and sheltered coastal waters. It feeds mainly on aquatic vegetation and is a familiar sight in southern Chile and Patagonia.
Chimango caracaraMilvago chimangoThe Chimango caracara is one of the most common birds of prey in southern South America. An opportunistic hunter and scavenger, it is frequently seen around coastlines, grasslands and settlements. Despite its modest size, it is highly adaptable and often feeds on insects, carrion and small animals.
Crested duckLophonetta specularioidesThe Crested duck is a distinctive waterfowl species found throughout southern South America. Named for the small crest on the back of its head, it inhabits lakes, rivers and coastal waters, where it feeds on aquatic plants and small invertebrates. It is particularly common in Patagonia and the Falkland Islands.
Dark-faced Ground TyrantMuscisaxicola maclovianusA small, ground-dwelling flycatcher found throughout southern Patagonia and the Falkland Islands. Recognisable by its dark face, pale grey underparts and upright stance, it is remarkably tame and often approaches hikers while searching for insects disturbed by their footsteps. Frequently seen on open grassland, rocky shores and mountain valleys, it is one of Patagonia's most familiar and photogenic birds.
Magellanic OystercatcherHaematopus leucopodusThe Magellanic oystercatcher is a striking shorebird of southern South America, recognised by its black-and-white plumage and bright orange-red bill. It inhabits rocky coasts and beaches, where it uses its specialised bill to feed on mussels and other shellfish.
Rufous-collared SparrowZonotrichia capensisThe Rufous-collared Sparrow (Zonotrichia capensis) is one of South America's most widespread and familiar songbirds. Recognisable by its grey head, black-and-white striped throat, and distinctive chestnut collar, it inhabits a wide variety of environments from gardens and farmland to mountain slopes and Patagonian scrub. It feeds mainly on seeds and insects and is often seen foraging on the ground or singing from low shrubs and fences.
Southern lapwingVanellus chilensisThe Southern lapwing is one of the most widespread and recognisable birds in South America. Known for its distinctive crest, loud calls and iridescent plumage, it inhabits open grasslands, wetlands and coastal areas. It is highly territorial and is often heard before it is seen.