Wildlife in Sierra de las Quijadas National Park

Information

Sierra de las Quijadas National Park in San Luis is a protected area that offers the opportunity to observe wildlife characteristic of the park's monte and dry Chaco environments.

Among the mammals, it is common to come across a guanaco (Lama guanicoe), a species that adapts very well to arid climates. You may also spot a Patagonian mara (Dolichotis patagonum) along the sides of the roads, while the pampas fox (Lycalopex gymnocercus) is often seen near the areas where visitors arrive. Occasionally, one of these foxes may approach people, allowing them to be observed from a relatively short distance.

As for reptiles, lizards are abundant. If you are lucky, you may also spot a Chaco tortoise (Chelonoidis chilensis), a species that is endangered.

The park is home to numerous recorded bird species. Some are quite abundant, such as the grey-hooded sierra-finch (Phrygilus gayi) and the white-winged black-tyrant (Knipolegus aterrimus). It is also common to see an Andean condor (Vultur gryphus) flying overhead or perched high on the hills. Among the parrots, the grey-hooded parakeet (Psilopsiagon aymara) is often found among the shrubs. Another species of particular interest is the Andean swift (Aeronautes andecolus), which stands out for being relatively easy to spot in this park.