Tinfunqué National Park

Tinfunqué Overview

Tinfunqué National Park, known locally as Parque Nacional Tinfunqué, is a protected area in Paraguay that showcases the unique ecosystems of the Humid Chaco region.

Covering approximately 1,083 square miles (2,805 square kilometers), the park is situated along the Pilcomayo River in the Presidente Hayes Department. Established in 1966, Tinfunqué was designated a Ramsar Site in 1995, recognizing its importance as a wetland of international significance.

The park’s landscape is characterized by an alluvial plain that experiences seasonal flooding, resulting in a mosaic of habitats. These include patches of forest, extensive clusters of lakes, and savannas dotted with palm groves.

Watercourses meander through ancient riverbeds lined with gallery forests, while vast dry plains support grasses and shrubs. This diverse terrain provides a rich tapestry of environments that support a wide array of flora and fauna.

Tinfunqué’s vegetation is adapted to its flood-prone environment. The savannas are dominated by palm species, while the forests consist of species resilient to periodic inundation. The wetlands are home to aquatic plants, including the critically endangered Potamogeton striatus. This variety of plant life creates a complex ecosystem that sustains numerous wildlife species.

The park is a haven for wildlife, serving as a breeding ground for several threatened species. Notably, it supports populations of the Chacoan peccary (Catagonus wagneri), a species once thought extinct. Other significant mammals include the marsh deer (Blastocerus dichotomus), South American tapir (Tapirus terrestris), and the maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus).

Birdlife is abundant, with species such as the green-winged teal (Amazonetta brasiliensis), whistling heron (Syrigma sibilatrix), and the wood stork (Mycteria americana) commonly observed. The park’s location along migratory routes makes it an essential stopover for numerous bird species.

Visitors to Tinfunqué can explore its diverse landscapes and observe its rich biodiversity. Activities such as birdwatching, wildlife photography, and guided nature walks offer immersive experiences in this unique environment. The park’s wetlands, forests, and savannas provide ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts to engage with the Chaco’s natural beauty.

Despite its ecological significance, Tinfunqué faces conservation challenges. The presence of private cattle ranches within its boundaries has led to conflicts between land use and conservation goals. While the park was initially designated as a national park, it was reclassified in 2016 as a Managed Resources Reserve to reflect the mixed land ownership and ongoing economic activities.

This reclassification aims to balance sustainable resource use with the preservation of biodiversity. Efforts are ongoing to involve local landowners in conservation initiatives, promoting practices that protect wildlife habitats while allowing for productive land use.

In summary, Tinfunqué National Park is a vital conservation area that embodies the ecological richness of Paraguay’s Humid Chaco. Its diverse habitats support a wide array of plant and animal species, some of which are threatened or endangered.

While challenges persist due to overlapping land uses, collaborative management approaches offer hope for the park’s future, ensuring that its natural treasures are preserved for generations to come.

Park Map

Tinfunqué National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Tinfunqué National Park is also a key site for birdwatching, home to a wide variety of waterfowl, wading birds, and raptors.

Jabiru Stork
The tallest flying bird in South America, the jabiru stork is commonly seen wading in shallow wetlands, using its large bill to catch fish.

Roseate Spoonbill
A striking pink wading bird, the roseate spoonbill uses its spoon-shaped bill to filter small aquatic organisms from the water.

Hyacinth Macaw
The largest parrot in the world, the hyacinth macaw is an endangered species that depends on the park’s forests for food and nesting sites.

Black-collared Hawk
An expert fisher, this raptor is often seen near rivers and wetlands, swooping down to catch fish with its sharp talons.

Southern Screamer
A large, goose-like bird, the southern screamer is known for its loud calls and prefers wetland habitats.

Great Egret
A graceful white heron, the great egret is commonly seen along the water’s edge, patiently hunting fish and amphibians.

Rufescent Tiger Heron
This elegant heron blends into the vegetation with its reddish-brown plumage and is often seen stalking prey in shallow waters.

Whistling Heron
Easily identified by its soft, melodious calls, the whistling heron is often seen near wetlands and flooded grasslands.

Black Skimmer
This unique bird skims the surface of the water with its lower bill, catching small fish in the park’s lagoons and rivers.

White-faced Whistling Duck
A distinctive waterfowl species, this duck is often found in large flocks in marshes and wet grasslands.

Tinfunqué National Park’s extensive wetlands, seasonal floodplains, and grasslands make it one of Paraguay’s most important conservation areas. As a vital habitat for wetland species and migratory birds, the park plays a crucial role in protecting the biodiversity of the Ñeembucú region. It offers a rare glimpse into one of South America’s most dynamic and ecologically valuable ecosystems.