Brazil is home to a whole host of amazing animals. 70% of the world's animal and plant species live there! Here are some of our favourites...
1. Jaguar
Brazil is home to the largest population of Jaguars in the world. These majestic big cats roam the Amazon rainforest and the Pantanal wetlands, preying on a variety of animals including capybaras, caimans, and tapirs.
2. Amazon River Dolphin
Brazil's Amazon River is inhabited by the enchanting pink river dolphin, also known as the boto. These freshwater dolphins are known for their unique pink coloration and are highly intelligent, often interacting playfully with humans and other species.
3. Hyacinth Macaw
The Hyacinth Macaw, the largest species of parrot in the world, is native to Brazil's Pantanal region. These striking blue birds are known for their impressive size and vibrant plumage, and they play a vital role in seed dispersal throughout the rainforest.
4. Golden Lion Tamarin
Endemic to the Atlantic Forest of Brazil, the Golden Lion Tamarin is a small, critically endangered monkey known for its bright orange fur and distinct facial features. Conservation efforts have been crucial in protecting and restoring its habitat.
5. Giant Anteater
The Pantanal is home to the Giant Anteater, the largest of its kind. With its long snout and distinctive bushy tail, this insectivorous mammal roams grasslands and forests, using its powerful claws to tear open termite mounds and ant nests.
6. Toucans
Brazil boasts an incredible diversity of toucan species, including the iconic Keel-Billed Toucan and the Fiery-Billed Aracari. These colorful birds with their large, vibrant bills play essential roles in seed dispersal and forest ecology.
7. Harpy Eagle
The Harpy Eagle, one of the largest and most powerful eagles in the world, inhabits the forests of Brazil, particularly the Amazon rainforest. With its imposing size and fierce talons, it preys on a variety of animals, including monkeys and sloths.
8. Capuchin Monkeys
Brazil is home to several species of capuchin monkeys, including the robust capuchin and the black-striped capuchin. These highly intelligent primates are known for their tool-using abilities and complex social structures.
9. Green Anaconda
The Amazon Basin in Brazil is home to the green anaconda, the largest snake species by weight. These powerful constrictors can reach lengths of over 20 feet and are apex predators in their aquatic habitats, feeding on fish, birds, and mammals.
10. Goliath Bird-Eating Spider
Found in the Brazilian Amazon rainforest, the Goliath bird-eating spider is the world's largest spider by mass and size. Despite its intimidating name, it primarily preys on insects, small reptiles, and amphibians, rarely targeting birds.