13 Native Animals of Uruguay: Names, Characteristics, and Conservation Status

Uruguay, located in southeastern South America, boasts a rich variety of ecosystems, including grasslands, forests, wetlands, hills, and coastal areas. These diverse landscapes support a wide range of native wildlife, playing a crucial role in the country’s natural heritage.

In this article, you'll discover 13 native animals of Uruguay, including mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles. Note that “native” animals are naturally found in Uruguay but may also exist in other regions—unlike endemic species, which are found exclusively in one geographic location.

1. Northern Royal Albatross (Diomedea sanfordi)

This large seabird is known for its majestic wingspan and gliding abilities. It breeds every two years and is highly vulnerable to longline fishing, which has drastically reduced its population.

• Habitat: Southern Hemisphere coastal and oceanic regions

• Conservation Status: Endangered (EN) – IUCN

• Main Threats: Bycatch in commercial fisheries, marine pollution

2. San Martín Toad (Melanophryniscus sammartini)

A small, brightly colored amphibian with high medicinal, cultural, and ecological value. It inhabits hilly regions in northern and eastern Uruguay.

• Conservation Status: Near Threatened (NT)

• Threats: Deforestation, climate change, soybean cultivation

• Ecological Role: Insect control and environmental indicator species

3. Six-Banded Armadillo (Euphractus sexcintus flavimanus)

Also known locally as "tatú peludo" or “yellow-haired armadillo,” this omnivorous mammal digs burrows for shelter and foraging.

• Habitat: Grasslands, shrublands, forests, and open fields

• Diet: Insects, small animals, plant roots

• Conservation Status: Least Concern (LC)

4. Great Kiskadee (Pitangus sulphuratus)

A native passerine bird recognized by its loud call and bold black-white head stripes with a bright yellow breast.

• Habitat: Bushlands, wetlands, and riverbanks

• Diet: Omnivorous (insects, fish, lizards, fruits, small rodents)

5. Southern Long-Nosed Armadillo (Dasypus hybridus)

Nicknamed "mulita," this armadillo species digs with its long, pointed snout and claws. It has limited chewing ability, restricting its diet.

• Conservation Status: Near Threatened (NT)

• Threats: Hunting, habitat destruction

6. Southern Lapwing (Vanellus chilensis)

A common bird across Uruguay, often seen near coasts, marshes, and even city parks. Known for its loud, territorial calls.

• Diet: Insects and small invertebrates

• Breeding: Year-round; nests on the ground

7. Capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris)

The world’s largest rodent, locally known as “carpincho” or “chigüire.” These herbivores live in groups near lakes, rivers, and wetlands.

• Conservation Status: Near Threatened (NT)

• Threats: Overhunting, habitat degradation

• Protected: Recognized as a protected species by Uruguay’s DINAMA

8. Southern Crested Caracara (Caracara plancus)

A large raptor from the falcon family. It has a distinctive black crest and yellow legs with hooked talons. Unlike other birds of prey, it spends more time walking.

• Diet: Mostly carrion, but also small vertebrates

• Habitat: Forest edges, grasslands, and open fields

9. Southern Right Whale (Eubalaena australis)

A baleen whale seen off Uruguay’s coast. It filters plankton with baleen plates and can reach 15 meters in length, weighing over 45 tons.

• Color: Black with white patches on the underside

• Notable Feature: Lacks a dorsal fin

10. Brazilian Free-Tailed Bat (Tadarida brasiliensis)

A nocturnal, insectivorous bat commonly found in cities and natural areas alike. It roosts in caves, tree hollows, and even house rooftops.

• Color: Brown

• Ecological Role: Natural insect control, especially mosquitoes

11. Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus)

Called “tonina” or “tursión” in Uruguay, this dolphin is known for its intelligence and curved dorsal fin. It lives in coastal and estuarine waters.

• Global Status: Least Concern (LC), but declining locally

• Threats: Pollution, noise from boats, habitat disruption

12. Pink-Toed Tarantula (Grammostola anthracina)

Also called “chicken spider” or “pollito,” this large spider is a long-lived, nocturnal predator. It senses prey using its body hairs.

• Lifespan: 15–20 years

• Habitat: Forests, under rocks, or tree trunks

13. Greater Rhea (Rhea americana)

The largest bird in South America. Though flightless, it runs swiftly across open fields, steppes, and farmlands. It is omnivorous.

• Diet: Seeds, insects, small vertebrates

• Adaptation: Long legs for running, large body size

Conclusion

Uruguay’s native fauna represents a vital part of its national biodiversity. While not all species are exclusive to Uruguay, many face growing threats from habitat loss, hunting, and climate change. Conservation efforts are crucial not just for preserving species—but for protecting the integrity of Uruguay’s entire ecosystem.

animal tags： Uruguayan Animals