With more than 1,000 bird species, Argentina is one of the most diverse birding destinations in South America. From the colorful species of the north to the majestic seabirds of Patagonia, the country offers extraordinary opportunities for birdwatching. Here we share our regional overview of Argentina’s birdlife, including some of the most iconic species and where to find them.
Birds of Northern Argentina (Yungas, Chaco & Formosa)
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Toco Toucan (Ramphastos toco) – Iconic with its oversized orange bill, found in subtropical forests.
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King Vulture (Sarcoramphus papa) – Striking bird with multicolored head, soaring above tropical woodlands.
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Cream-backed Woodpecker (Campephilus leucopogon) – A powerful woodpecker, often spotted in Chaco forests.
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Many-colored Chaco-Finch (Saltatricula multicolor) – Endemic to this region, with vibrant plumage.
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Jabiru (Jabiru mycteria) – Common in Formosa’s wetlands, especially in Bañado La Estrella.
Best areas: Calilegua National Park (Jujuy), Chaco National Park, Bañado La Estrella (Formosa), Iberá Wetlands transition zones.
Birds of the Pampas & Central Argentina
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Southern Screamer (Chauna torquata) – Loud and unmistakable, found near wetlands and grasslands.
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Rufous Hornero (Furnarius rufus) – Argentina’s national bird, famous for its oven-shaped mud nest.
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Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) – Often seen perched near burrows across grasslands.
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Pampas Meadowlark (Leistes defilippii) – A threatened species endemic to the pampas.
Best areas: Buenos Aires province grasslands, Otamendi Nature Reserve, Córdoba wetlands.
Birds of the Andes, Cuyo & Altiplano
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Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus) – Symbol of the Andes, with wingspans over 3 meters. The Andean Condor is also present in many other places of Argentina.
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Torrent Duck (Merganetta armata) – Specialized in fast-flowing rivers.
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Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle (Geranoaetus melanoleucus) – Powerful raptor soaring over mountain ridges.
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Andean Tinamou (Nothoprocta pentlandii) – A shy ground bird adapted to arid Andean valleys.
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Andean Flamingo (Phoenicoparrus andinus) – A high-altitude flamingo found in salt flats and lagoons, one of the rarest flamingos in the world.
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James’s Flamingo (Phoenicoparrus jamesi) – Another high-Andean flamingo, often sharing habitat with the Andean Flamingo.
Best areas: Mendoza’s high Andes, Aconcagua foothills, Quebrada de Humahuaca, high-altitude salt flats and lagoons in Jujuy and Catamarca.
Birds of Patagonia
Patagonia is home to some of Argentina’s most iconic bird species, from seabirds to steppe dwellers.
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Magellanic Penguin (Spheniscus magellanicus) – Colonies along the Atlantic coast, including Punta Tombo. Check our article about the Best places to see penguins in Patagonia, and our Patagonia Penguin Tour.
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Southern Giant Petrel (Macronectes giganteus) – A large seabird found offshore.
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Chilean Flamingo (Phoenicopterus chilensis) – Seen in steppe lagoons and Andean lakes.
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Austral Parakeet (Enicognathus ferrugineus) – The world’s southernmost parrot.
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Hooded Grebe (Podiceps gallardoi) – Critically endangered, endemic to Santa Cruz province.
For a full overview of the region, check our dedicated guide: Birds of Patagonia.
Best areas: Península Valdés, Tierra del Fuego, Lago Argentino, Patagonia steppe lagoons.
Birds of the Northeast (Iberá Wetlands & Misiones Rainforest)
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Jabiru (Jabiru mycteria) – The tallest flying bird in South America, found in wetlands.
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Scarlet-headed Blackbird (Amblyramphus holosericeus) – Bright red plumage contrasting with marsh vegetation.
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Harpy Eagle (Harpia harpyja) – Rare in Argentina, but occasionally seen in Misiones rainforest.
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Helmeted Manakin (Antilophia galeata) – Small but striking, with its red crest.
- Band-Tailed Manaking and Blue Manakin
- Plush-crested Jay
- Great Dusky Swift (Cypseloides senex): the icon if Iguazu Falls.
Best areas: Iberá Wetlands, Iguazú National Park, Urugua-í Provincial Park.
If you want to learn more, check our dedicated guides to the Birds of the Iberá Wetlands and the Birds of Misiones, where we explore these two extraordinary regions in depth.
Why Birdwatch in Argentina?
Argentina’s diversity of ecosystems—rainforests, wetlands, grasslands, mountains, and coasts—makes it one of the richest birding countries in the world. Whether you’re looking for colorful subtropical birds, iconic Andean raptors, or Patagonia’s unique species, the country offers endless opportunities for discovery.
At Beyond BA Latam, we design tailor-made wildlife tours in Argentina and Chile, combining comfort, expert guidance, and unforgettable encounters with nature. Get in touch!
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