Birding in Patagonia: a Guide to learn about the main species
This vast region, spanning over 400,000 sq. mi. in southern Argentina and Chile, is home to a diverse range of bird species. From majestic Andean condors soaring high above the mountains to tiny hummingbirds flitting between the flowers, Patagonia is a bird lover’s paradise.
Andean Condor
By far, the most iconic birds in Patagonia, with a wingspan that goes up to 10 feet, these magnificent birds are the largest flying birds in the world. They can often be seen soaring high above the Andes mountains. Some of the best places to see them include the Torres del Paine National Park in Chile and Los Glaciares National Park in Argentina. If you want to learn more about Condors, we invite you to check our article Condors in Argentina and Chile.
Magellanic Woodpecker (Campephilus magellanicus)
Another bird species you’re likely to spot in Patagonia is the Magellanic woodpecker. These striking birds are easily recognizable by their black and white plumage and bright red crest. Also one of the largest woodpecker species in the world, with some individuals growing even up to 18 inches (45 centimeters) in length. Magellanic woodpeckers can be seen throughout Patagonia, but the best places to spot them are probably the forests of Tierra del Fuego, El Chaltén, Torres del Paine, and the Nahuel Huapi National Park.
Chilean Flamingo (Austral Flamingo / Phoenicopterus chilensis)
If you’re a fan of bright colors, you won’t want to miss the chance to see the Chilean flamingo in Patagonia. These stunning birds are easily recognizable by their bright pink plumage and long, thin legs. They can be found in large flocks in the wetlands and lagoons of Patagonia, for instance in the areas around the city of Punta Arenas, El Calafate, and the Chiloe Island in Chile. Best time to see them is during the months of December to March, when they congregate in large numbers to breed.
Magellanic Penguin and other penguin types
It’s a medium-sized penguin that breeds in large colonies along the coasts of Patagonia. They can be found in places such as Punta Tombo, Peninsula Valdes, and Ushuaia in Argentinian Patagonia, and Isla Magdalena in Chilean Patagonia.
There are other 3 species that visit the Patagonian coasts every year to breed and reproduce: the Rockhopper Penguin, King Penguin, and Gentoo penguin. If you want to learn more about penguins, we invite you to read our article about Penguins in Patagonia.
Andean Goose (Chloephaga melanoptera)
The Andean goose is a large, waterfowl species that are commonly found in Patagonia. They can be seen in wetlands and lagoons, as well as in the meadows and grasslands of the region.
Magellan Goose or Upland Goose (Chloephaga picta)
If we continue with the Goose’s family, we should definitely mention the “Cauquén” (Magellan Goose). It breeds in different areas of Argentina, including flat zones, sea channels, and bays. There is a beautiful hotel in Ushuaia named after them, called “Los Caquenes”.
Rufous-tailed Plantcutter (Phytotoma rara)
The Rufous-tailed plantcutter is a small bird with a distinctive, long tail. They’re commonly found in the shrublands and grasslands of Patagonia.
Torrent Duck (Merganetta armata)
The Torrent duck is a small, diving duck that is found in fast-moving streams and rivers in Patagonia. They´re known for their ability to swim against strong currents.
Choique (Rhea Darwin/Pennata)
The largest non-flying bird in Patagonia lives in different areas both of Argentina and Chile. It’s pretty common to see them across the steppe while doing road trips in Santa Cruz, many times sharing territory with Guanacos and other species. They can run very fast (37 miles per hour), and the males are in charge of raising the chicks!
You can find more information in our article about Choiques.
Patagonian Sierra-finch (Phrygilus patagonicus)
The Patagonian Sierra-finch is a small, sparrow-like bird that is found in the shrublands and grasslands of Patagonia. They are known for their distinctive, melodious song.
Southern crested Caracara (Caracara plancus)
This is a predator that hunts small animals, including different kinds of preys.
Similar to this animal, we can also find the Chimango Caracara.
Hooded grebe (Podiceps gallardoi)
This endangered bird species breeds usually in the province of Santa Cruz, Patagonia Argentina. They are white and black, and are found around remote lakes. They are part of the logo of the National Park Patagonia.
Black faced ibis (Theristicus melanopis)
These birds live in marshlands and meadows, such as those near El Calafate, and have a picturesque decurved black bill.
Austral Pygmy-Owl
This beautiful, little owl, is a skilled nocturnal hunter that lives in different areas of Patagonia, including Lenga, Ñire, and Coihue forests.
Southern Giant Petrel (Macronectes giganteus)
This humongous, incredible seabird is found along the coast of the Atlantic Sea, and a very nice place to spot them is Peninsula Valdes. They have a brownish-gray colored plumage, and eat sea animals and small birds.
Rock Shag (Phalacrocorax magellanicus) and Imperial Shag (Leucocarbo atriceps)
There are different kinds of Cormorants in Patagonia, such as the impressive blue-eyed (Imperial Shag) that is found in Puerto Deseado (among other areas).
Other Bird Species in Patagonia
Apart from these three bird species, there are many other species that can be found in Patagonia. Some other bird species that you may encounter in the region include:
Black chested buzzard-eagle (Geranoaetus melanoleucus)
Ringed King Fisher (megaceryle torquata )
Black necked Swan (Cygnus melancoryphus)
Austral blackbird (Curaeus curaeus)
Martineta tinamou (Eudromia elegans)
Burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia)
Burrowing parrot (Cyanoliseus patagonus)
The list continues to an uncountable amount of species of all kinds and sizes, distributed accross Chilean and Argentinian territories.
Best Time for Bird Watching in Patagonia
The best time to visit Patagonia for bird watching in Patagonia is between September and April, however, the rest of the months could also give chances for birding. During this time, the weather is mild and many bird species are breeding and raising their young.
Best Places to Spot Birds in Patagonia
Patagonia is a vast region with a variety of different ecosystems, each of which offers unique opportunities for bird watching. Some of the best places to find the most popular birds of Patagonia include Torres del Paine, Los Glaciares National Park, Tierra del Fuego, Punta Tombo & Peninsula Valdes, and Chiloé.
Birds in Antarctica
If you have been encouraged by the birds of Patagonia and would like to learn now about the birds of Antarctica, we invite you to explore the following posts:
Types of Penguins in Antarctica
Wildlife tours in Patagonia
Whether you’re an experienced bird watcher or just enjoy seeing these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat, Patagonia is a great destination to do it.
We are a local travel company based in Argentina that offers tours in Argentina, Chile, and Antarctica, and would love to help you to design yours.
We offer personalized, flexible tours, such as the following wildlife safaris:
You can also see birds on our following cruises:
Cruise Ushuaia to Punta Arenas
