Serra da Bodoquena National Park

Birds

Serra da Bodoquena National Park, located in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, is a stunning region known for its limestone caves, crystal-clear rivers, and lush forests. As part of the Pantanal and Atlantic Forest transition zone, the park is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including rare and endemic species. Its unique karst landscape and aquatic ecosystems provide a haven for both terrestrial and aquatic animals.

Jaguar (Panthera onca)
The jaguar, the top predator of the region, roams the dense forests and riverbanks of Serra da Bodoquena. This powerful big cat preys on capybaras, peccaries, and even caimans, often using its strong jaws to deliver a fatal bite to the skull.

Giant Otter (Pteronura brasiliensis)
One of the most charismatic mammals of the park, the giant otter thrives in its crystal-clear rivers. These social animals live in family groups and hunt fish, crustaceans, and small reptiles, using their agility and teamwork to secure food.

Pampas Deer (Ozotoceros bezoarticus)
Once common across Brazil, the pampas deer now finds refuge in protected areas like Serra da Bodoquena. This graceful deer prefers open grasslands and forest edges, where it feeds on grasses and shrubs.

Lowland Tapir (Tapirus terrestris)
The largest land mammal in South America, the lowland tapir is an important seed disperser. These nocturnal herbivores inhabit the park’s forests and riverbanks, feeding on fruits, leaves, and aquatic plants.

Neotropical Otter (Lontra longicaudis)
A skilled swimmer, the Neotropical otter is often found gliding through the park’s waterways. It preys on fish, amphibians, and crustaceans, using its keen senses and dexterity to navigate both fast and slow-moving waters.

Ocelot (Leopardus pardalis)
A beautifully patterned wild cat, the ocelot is a stealthy nocturnal predator that preys on small mammals, birds, and reptiles. It moves silently through the dense vegetation, relying on its excellent night vision and agility.

Capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris)
The world’s largest rodent, the capybara is commonly seen along the park’s rivers. These semi-aquatic animals live in family groups and are an essential part of the ecosystem, serving as prey for large predators like jaguars and caimans.

Collared Peccary (Pecari tajacu)
A tough and social mammal, the collared peccary travels in small herds through the forests and open areas of the park. It is an opportunistic feeder, consuming fruits, roots, and small animals.

Green Anaconda (Eunectes murinus)
One of the largest snakes in the world, the green anaconda thrives in the park’s wetlands and slow-moving rivers. It is an ambush predator, using its powerful body to constrict and subdue prey before swallowing them whole.

Yacare Caiman (Caiman yacare)
A common sight in the park’s rivers and lagoons, the Yacare caiman is a medium-sized crocodilian that feeds on fish, amphibians, and birds. Despite its fearsome appearance, it plays an essential role in maintaining the balance of the aquatic ecosystem.

Birds

Serra da Bodoquena National Park is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with its mix of forests, wetlands, and riverbanks providing habitat for an impressive variety of bird species. From colorful parrots to powerful birds of prey, the park is alive with avian diversity.

Hyacinth Macaw (Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus)
The largest flying parrot in the world, the hyacinth macaw is famous for its stunning cobalt-blue feathers and powerful beak. Found in open woodlands and palm groves, it primarily feeds on nuts and fruits.

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 forests. It plays a crucial role in seed dispersal, helping maintain the diversity of plant life.

Jabiru Stork (Jabiru mycteria)
A symbol of the Pantanal, the jabiru stork is the largest flying bird in South America. With its long legs and striking black-and-white plumage, it wades through wetlands, feeding on fish, amphibians, and small reptiles.

Black-collared Hawk (Busarellus nigricollis)
A specialist in hunting fish, this striking hawk soars over the park’s waterways, scanning for prey. It often swoops down with precision to snatch fish from the water.

Blue-and-Yellow Macaw (Ara ararauna)
This dazzling parrot is known for its vibrant blue and yellow feathers and loud, raucous calls. Found in pairs or small flocks, these macaws are highly intelligent and form strong social bonds.

Great Potoo (Nyctibius grandis)
A master of camouflage, the great potoo blends seamlessly into tree branches during the day. At night, it hunts insects and small vertebrates, using its large mouth and excellent night vision.

Plumbeous Kite (Ictinia plumbea)
A graceful bird of prey, the plumbeous kite is often seen soaring above the park’s forests, hunting insects and small vertebrates in midair.

Sunbittern (Eurypyga helias)
With its beautifully patterned wings, the sunbittern is a fascinating bird often seen near water bodies. When threatened, it spreads its wings to reveal intricate, eye-like markings that startle predators.

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.

Black-fronted Nunbird (Monasa nigrifrons)
A social and vocal bird, the black-fronted nunbird is often seen in small groups perched on branches, waiting to catch flying insects.

Serra da Bodoquena National Park is a hidden gem of Brazil, offering visitors a chance to explore breathtaking landscapes filled with crystal-clear rivers, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. Whether diving into its pristine waters, spotting exotic birds, or observing elusive big cats, this park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.