Descobrimento National Park

Descobrimento Overview

Descobrimento National Park, known locally as Parque Nacional do Descobrimento, spans approximately 82 square miles (212 square kilometers) and is situated in the state of Bahia, Brazil, along the Atlantic coastline.

Established to preserve the dwindling remnants of the once expansive Atlantic Forest, this national park serves as a critical sanctuary for biodiversity. The park’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean has gifted it with a unique ecological tapestry, blending coastal landscapes, dense rainforests, and a range of delicate ecosystems.

The terrain within Descobrimento National Park is characterized by lush and humid Atlantic Forest, an ecosystem recognized for its extraordinary biodiversity. Its gently undulating hills and plains harbor rich soils sustaining abundant plant life, including towering trees such as jequitibá and jacarandá, along with diverse orchids and bromeliads that adorn the forest canopy and understory.

Rivers and streams meander throughout the landscape, nourishing the verdant flora and creating small cascades and freshwater pools that contribute significantly to the scenic beauty and ecological diversity of the area.

Wildlife enthusiasts visiting Descobrimento National Park have the opportunity to encounter numerous species that thrive within its protected boundaries. Mammals such as the elusive jaguar, the ocelot, the tapir, and several monkey species including the endangered golden-headed lion tamarin are notable inhabitants.

Birds are abundant, making this park a paradise for birdwatchers. Species frequently observed include the vibrant red-billed curassow, the rare harpy eagle, colorful tanagers, and toucans, whose calls frequently resonate throughout the forest.

A popular feature of the park is its well-preserved trails, which invite visitors to immerse themselves in nature, offering captivating glimpses of the lush biodiversity. The Rio do Braço Trail is particularly favored for its stunning views of the forest canopy and frequent wildlife sightings.

Additionally, the peaceful waterfalls and natural pools scattered throughout the park’s interior provide refreshing retreats for hikers and explorers.

Visitors to Descobrimento National Park can engage in various outdoor experiences, from guided ecological walks and wildlife photography to birdwatching excursions led by knowledgeable local guides.

Educational programs focusing on conservation and environmental awareness are regularly held, helping visitors understand and appreciate the ecological significance and the delicate balance of this Atlantic Forest region.

Conservation within Descobrimento National Park faces ongoing challenges, primarily stemming from external pressures such as deforestation, illegal hunting, and encroachment by agricultural activities in surrounding areas.

Despite these threats, the park has achieved considerable successes in conservation, notably through effective management practices, community engagement initiatives, and environmental education programs.

Collaboration with local communities has resulted in significant reductions in illegal logging and hunting, fostering a shared sense of responsibility toward preserving this invaluable ecosystem.

The park represents not only a protected area for biodiversity but also a significant cultural landscape, symbolic of Brazil’s rich natural heritage. Efforts continue to expand conservation measures and secure further protections, ensuring the longevity and resilience of Descobrimento National Park for generations to come.

Park Map

Descobrimento National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Descobrimento National Park, located in southern Bahia, Brazil, is a protected area of the Atlantic Forest biome, one of the most threatened and biodiverse ecosystems on Earth. This lush rainforest is home to a high concentration of endemic and endangered species, many of which rely on the dense forest cover and humid climate for survival.

Jaguar
As the apex predator of the Atlantic Forest, the jaguar plays a critical ecological role in regulating prey populations. Although elusive, it inhabits the dense forests and moves silently through the undergrowth in search of deer, peccaries, and armadillos.

Puma
Also known as the mountain lion or cougar, the puma is another key predator in the park. It is highly adaptable and can hunt a wide range of prey, from small rodents to larger mammals.

Black-fronted Piping Guan
An endangered species and symbol of Atlantic Forest conservation, this large, arboreal bird-like mammal plays an important role in seed dispersal. It’s shy and primarily found in undisturbed forest.

Giant Anteater
This striking creature is well-adapted to the park’s mix of open areas and forests. It uses its long tongue to feed on ants and termites, and its large claws are both tools and defense mechanisms.

South American Coati
Often seen foraging during the day, coatis use their long snouts and flexible paws to search for insects, fruits, and eggs. They are social animals and travel in groups.

Capuchin Monkey
These highly intelligent and social monkeys move in troops through the forest canopy. They feed on fruits, insects, and small animals and use tools and teamwork to solve problems.

Collared Peccary
This wild pig-like mammal lives in small herds and forages on roots, tubers, and fruits. It is an important prey species for large predators like pumas and jaguars.

Gray Brocket Deer
A small, shy forest deer, the gray brocket is active mostly at dawn and dusk. It browses on leaves, fruits, and shoots and remains hidden in dense undergrowth.

Tayra
An agile, weasel-like mammal, the tayra is both a predator and a scavenger. It climbs trees with ease and feeds on birds, fruit, and small mammals.

Nine-banded Armadillo
This common armadillo digs burrows and forages for insects and larvae on the forest floor. Its protective armor helps shield it from predators, and it plays a role in soil aeration.

Birds

Descobrimento National Park is a stronghold for Atlantic Forest birdlife, many of which are endemic and threatened. The tall canopies, fruit-rich understory, and untouched habitat provide sanctuary for a dazzling array of colorful and ecologically important bird species.

Red-billed Curassow
Critically endangered and endemic to the Atlantic Forest, this large, ground-dwelling bird feeds on fallen fruits and insects. It is extremely rare and protected through intensive conservation efforts.

Banded Cotinga
This brilliantly colored, fruit-eating bird is one of the Atlantic Forest’s rarest gems. Males are deep blue with black-and-white barring, and they are typically seen in the canopy of tall trees.

White-necked Hawk
A striking and elusive raptor with mostly white plumage and black markings, it soars silently above the forest, hunting for small birds and reptiles.

Black-headed Berryeater
Endemic to southeastern Brazil, this colorful fruit-eater has a dark head and green body. It plays an important role in seed dispersal and is heard more often than seen.

Maroon-faced Parakeet
This noisy, social parakeet lives in flocks and feeds on fruits, seeds, and flowers. Its maroon facial markings and green body help it blend into the forest canopy.

Ochre-marked Parakeet
Endangered and endemic, this rare parakeet is found in the Atlantic Forest canopy, where it forages in small groups. Its subtle ochre markings distinguish it from other parrots.

Bare-throated Bellbird
The male of this species produces a metallic, bell-like call that echoes through the forest. It is white with a distinctive bare throat, while the female is greenish and less vocal.

Spot-billed Toucanet
A smaller toucan species with a spotted bill and brilliant green and red plumage, it feeds primarily on fruit and helps disperse seeds throughout the forest.

Pin-tailed Manakin
These small, bright birds are known for their acrobatic courtship displays. Males show off vivid red and black plumage as they leap between branches in the shady understory.

Yellow-legged Thrush
With its glossy black plumage and bright yellow legs, this thrush is commonly heard singing from the canopy. It feeds on fruit and insects and is an important seed disperser.