One of the most biologically rich environments

Species? And how many?

Over 658 species of birds alone have been identified, as well as over 190 mammals, 50 reptiles, 1,132 species of butterflies, and 270 fish species - with many more likely to be identified in this poorly researched region.

The concentrations in which these are found help make the Pantanal an extraordinary habitat for ecotourism, field research, aesthetic inspiration, and ecological education. The Panantal is indeed an unmatched wildlife sanctuary.

A land of giants
The Pantanal is thought to be the most animal-rich area with highest concentration of animal populations of the Americas, possibly surpassing the Amazon rainforest, and is certainly remarkable for the amount of large creatures it houses.

Giant anteaters and armadillos roam the land, flanked by the world's largest rodent: the capybara, and the Brazilian tapir, which is the wetland's most imposing native mammal. In this vast open landscape of rivers and lakes, you can also find the biggest Jaguar in the world, and Giant Otters playing amongst the Pirañas.

The other legendary species that lurks in these waters is the Anaconda, which has been known to measure up to a heart-stopping 4.5 metres. And sharing the rivers and lakes are giant water lilies and fish, such as the dourado, jaus and paws, all of which weigh over 40 kilos. The wetland is also a refuge for many endangered species, such as the howler and capuchin monkeys, caiman, giant black eagle, and deer of the Pantanal.

Haven for birds and bird enthusiasts
Pantanal has an enormous concentration of bird life, particularly when migratory birds settle here to feed and breed. Found here is the Greater Rhea - the largest flightless bird in the Western Hemisphere, the 'too-yoo-yoo' bird that is the symbol of the Pantanal, the Jabiru Stork, and the biggest of all parrot species - the Hyacinth macaw. Particularly when the floodwaters recede, the banks are abuzz with storks, herons, ibises and spoonbills, while the canopy is alive with parrots, toucans and macaws.