Argentina

Argentina is the eighth largest country in the world. It includes vast plains, deserts, tundra and forests, as well as high mountains, rivers and thousands of miles of ocean coastline. Despite the romantic appeal of the pampas and vast, arid Patagonian landscapes, Argentina is largely urban country. Argentina's fauna and flora range from the country's mountainous zones to the arid and humid plains and subpolar regions. Many species live in the subtropical north. Prominent animals include big cats like the jaguar and puma, primates like the Howler Monkey, crocodiles, the Argentine Black and White Tegu and a species of caiman. Other animals include the tapir, peccary, capybara, bush dog and various species of turtle and tortoise. There are a wide variety of birds, notably hummingbirds, flamingos, toucans and swallows. The central grasslands are populated by the Giant Anteater, Armadillo, Pampas Cat, Maned Wolf, mara, cavias and the Rhea. Hawks, falcons and herons inhabit the region. There are also Pampas Deer and Pampas Fox. The western mountains are home to animals including the llama, Guanaco and Vicuña. Also in this region are the fox, viscacha, Andean Mountain Cat, Kodkod and Andean Condor. Southern Argentina is home to the cougar, huemul, pudú. The coast of Patagonia is also rich in animal life: Elephant Seals, Fur Seals, Sea Lions and species of penguin. The far south is populated by cormorants. The territorial waters of Argentina have abundant ocean life: dolphins, orcas and whales. Well known snake species inhabiting Argentina include Boa Constrictor and a very venomous pit viper named the Yarará.