Peru

Peruvian territory has been the cradle of several ancient and medieval cultures, boasting one of the most extensive histories of civilization in the world, dating back to the 10th millennium BCE. The wealth of pre-colonial cultures and civilizations in Peru is truly remarkable, including the Caral-Supe civilization, which is recognized as the earliest civilization in the Americas and is considered a pioneering force in the development of human civilization. Other notable cultures and empires such as the Nazca culture, the Wari and Tiwanaku empires, the Kingdom of Cusco, and the renowned Inca Empire have left an indelible mark on the country's history and heritage. The Spanish Empire's conquest of the region in the 16th century led to the establishment of the viceroyalty of the Kingdom of Peru by Charles V, which encompassed a vast portion of South America and had Lima as its capital. Peru has rich biodiversity, which is a testament to its varied geography and climate, making it one of the megadiverse countries in the world. With over 21,462 species of plants and animals reported as of 2003, including 5,855 endemic species, Peru stands out as a hotbed of ecological diversity. The avian population is particularly impressive, with over 1,800 species of birds, 120 of which are endemic to the region. Moreover, the country is home to over 500 species of mammals, over 300 species of reptiles, and over 1,000 species of freshwater fishes. Among the diverse mammalian species, one can find some of the most elusive and rare creatures, including the puma, jaguar, and Spectacled Bear.