Brasilia National Park

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Brasilia National Park, located near Brazil’s capital, is a crucial protected area within the Cerrado biome, one of the most biodiverse savannas in the world. The park serves as a refuge for a wide variety of wildlife, including iconic mammals and reptiles that have adapted to the region’s dry climate and seasonal water availability.

Maned Wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus)
This long-legged, fox-like canid is one of the most recognizable species of the park. Known for its solitary nature and omnivorous diet, the maned wolf primarily feeds on fruits, small mammals, and birds. It is often spotted during twilight hours, roaming the open grasslands.

Giant Anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla)
A remarkable insectivore, the giant anteater uses its long, sticky tongue to consume thousands of ants and termites daily. It has powerful claws to tear open insect nests and relies on its bushy tail for camouflage while resting.

Pampas Deer (Ozotoceros bezoarticus)
Once widespread across the Cerrado, the pampas deer is now a rare sight, but Brasilia National Park provides a safe haven for this species. These graceful animals prefer open savannas and feed on grasses and shrubs.

Hoary Fox (Lycalopex vetulus)
This small, nocturnal canid is endemic to the Cerrado and is well-adapted to its dry, open landscapes. The hoary fox primarily feeds on insects and small vertebrates, playing a crucial role in controlling pest populations.

Capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris)
The world’s largest rodent is often found near the park’s rivers and waterholes. These social, semi-aquatic animals live in groups and are an essential part of the ecosystem, serving as prey for large predators.

Neotropical Otter (Lontra longicaudis)
A skilled swimmer, the Neotropical otter thrives in the park’s water systems. It preys on fish and amphibians, using its agility and keen senses to hunt in both clear and murky waters.

South American Tapir (Tapirus terrestris)
One of the largest herbivores in the park, the South American tapir is a key species for seed dispersal. It prefers dense vegetation near water sources and is most active at night.

Crab-eating Fox (Cerdocyon thous)
Despite its name, the crab-eating fox has a varied diet that includes fruits, insects, and small animals. It is highly adaptable and can be seen foraging during dawn and dusk.

Yellow Anaconda (Eunectes notaeus)
This non-venomous constrictor is found in the wetlands of the park. Though smaller than its green anaconda relative, it is still a formidable predator, feeding on fish, amphibians, and small mammals.

Red-footed Tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonarius)
A slow-moving but resilient reptile, the red-footed tortoise is commonly found in the Cerrado’s forests. It feeds on fruits, flowers, and fungi and plays a significant role in seed dispersal.

Birds

Brasilia National Park is also home to a stunning variety of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The diverse ecosystems of the Cerrado support everything from small songbirds to powerful raptors.

Blue-and-Yellow Macaw (Ara ararauna)
This large, vibrant parrot is often seen flying in pairs or small flocks. Known for its loud calls and strong beak, the blue-and-yellow macaw plays a key role in seed dispersal across the park.

Toco Toucan (Ramphastos toco)
Easily recognized by its massive orange beak, the toco toucan is a fruit-loving bird that thrives in the park’s wooded areas. It uses its beak to pluck fruits from branches that other birds cannot reach.

Red-legged Seriema (Cariama cristata)
A unique bird of the Cerrado, the red-legged seriema is known for its loud, piercing calls. It hunts small reptiles and insects on the ground, using its strong legs to chase down prey.

Crested Caracara (Caracara plancus)
A bold and opportunistic raptor, the crested caracara is often seen scavenging or hunting small animals. It has a striking black-and-white plumage with a distinctive orange face.

White-eared Puffbird (Nystalus chacuru)
This small yet charismatic bird is a skilled insect hunter, often perching motionless before darting out to catch prey. It is easily identified by its contrasting white and brown plumage.

Plumbeous Kite (Ictinia plumbea)
A graceful bird of prey, the plumbeous kite is often seen soaring above the park, searching for insects and small reptiles. It is known for its acrobatic flight and keen hunting skills.

Rusty-margined Guan (Penelope superciliaris)
This turkey-like bird is commonly found in the park’s forested areas. It feeds on fruits and leaves and is often heard making deep, guttural calls.

Amazon Kingfisher (Chloroceryle amazona)
A skilled fisher, the Amazon kingfisher is often spotted near the park’s rivers, diving into the water to catch small fish. Its green plumage and white chest make it easily recognizable.

Swallow-tailed Kite (Elanoides forficatus)
This elegant raptor is known for its long, forked tail and effortless gliding flight. It hunts insects and small animals, often catching prey in midair.

Peach-fronted Parakeet (Eupsittula aurea)
A small and lively parrot, the peach-fronted parakeet is commonly seen in the park’s open woodlands. Its bright green body and orange forehead make it a striking sight.

Brasilia National Park is a sanctuary for both terrestrial and avian wildlife, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the Cerrado. Whether exploring its savannas, wetlands, or forests, nature lovers will find an incredible array of species thriving in this unique ecosystem.