Fauna and Flora in El Calafate and Perito Moreno Glacier area

If you are a nature lover, interested in the living beings that inhabit the places you visit, this article is for you. There are some very interesting animals that you can find in the area, as well as abundant and specific plant life from this region. Below, we will explore the topic to give you an introduction to the fauna and flora of the El Calafate and Perito Moreno Glacier region.

What animals can I find in El Calafate and the Perito Moreno Glacier?

El Calafate and Perito Moreno Glacier region are home to a diverse range of wildlife, many of which are adapted to the harsh and extreme conditions of Patagonia.

One of the most iconic animals in the area is the guanaco, a member of the camelid family that is native to South America. These animals can be seen grazing on the grasslands surrounding El Calafate and the Perito Moreno Glacier, and are often seen along the roadsides. Visitors may also spot Andean condors soaring overhead, searching for carrion and other food sources.

Other common mammals in the area include the Patagonian fox, the Patagonian hare, and the southern river otter, which can sometimes be seen swimming in the glacial rivers and lakes. The region is also home to several species of birds, including the Austral parakeet, the Magellanic woodpecker, and the black-chested buzzard-eagle.

El Calafate and Perito Moreno Glacier region is not particularly known for its fish population, as the area is dominated by glaciers and mountains rather than waterways. However, there are still a few fish species that can be found in the region’s rivers and lakes.

One of the most common fish in the area is the Patagonian silverside, a small fish that is native to the freshwater rivers and lakes of Patagonia. Other fish that can be found in the area include the rainbow trout and the brown trout, both of which are popular game fish.

It’s worth noting that fishing regulations and restrictions are in place in many areas of Patagonia to help preserve and protect the fish populations. Visitors who are interested in fishing should check local regulations and obtain the appropriate permits before casting their lines.

Overall, the El Calafate and Perito Moreno Glacier region is a fascinating and biodiverse area, with plenty of opportunities for visitors to observe and appreciate the unique flora and fauna of Patagonia.

 

Fox in El calafate and perito moreno glacier

What is the flora like in El Calafate and Perito Moreno Glacier?

The flora in the El Calafate and Perito Moreno Glacier region is characterized by a variety of cold-tolerant trees, shrubs, and flowers that are adapted to the harsh and extreme conditions of the Patagonian climate.

One of the most iconic plants in the area is the Calafate bush, which is known for its tart, blueberry-like fruit. This shrub is found throughout the region, and its fruit is often used in local cuisine and in the production of jams and liqueurs.

Other notable trees and shrubs in the area include the lenga and ñirre trees, which are members of the beech family and are found throughout the Patagonian region. These trees are known for their beautiful fall foliage, which ranges from bright yellow to deep red.

In addition to the trees and shrubs, the area is also home to a variety of alpine flowers, including the orange and yellow coneflower, the purple Patagonian iris, and the white and pink Andean primrose. These flowers can be found growing in rocky areas, along riverbanks, and in meadows throughout the region.

Overall, the flora of the El Calafate and Perito Moreno Glacier region is diverse and unique, and is an important part of the area’s ecosystem. Visitors to the region can enjoy hiking and exploring the local plant life, and may even be able to taste the local Calafate berries in some of the region’s delicious food and drink.

patagonic wood in el calafate

Picture of Ramiro Rodriguez

Ramiro Rodriguez

25 years working in travel market, as Sales & Marketing Manager in RipioTurismo, Marketing Manager in Nuevas Ideas Travel Consulting Group. Writer and travel lover.

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