This list barely scratches the surface of the incredible birds and wildlife I encountered in Patagonia. I loved having my National Geographic South American Bird Field Guide by my side throughout the trip, flipping through its pages to identify the birds I spotted and keeping track of all the amazing species. The diversity of wildlife in Patagonia is unlike anything I’ve seen before, with so many unique birds that stand out from those found anywhere else. Here are just a few of the feathered friends that made an impression, some surprising sightings and others that became familiar faces during my travels. Hoping to one day go back and keep adding to the list!
Black-faced Ibis
Noisy and hard to miss, these ibises were honking as soon as I stepped off the bus in El Calafate. I spotted them all around town and at the Laguna Nimez Nature Preserve, where they search the wetlands for insects and small animals with their long, curved beaks. Much like pigeons in cities, these guys seem to be everywhere— their loud calls a constant reminder that they’re never too far away.
Upland Goose
Upland geese were a frequent sight throughout Patagonia, especially at the Laguna Nimez Nature Preserve where I spotted plenty sitting on their nests. The white feathers of the males were easy to spot in the grasslands as I traveled by bus. Here is a photo of a male incubating a nest at the Nature Preserve – in fact, the male upland goose will often take the lead in defending the nest in this species, standing guard and charging at any perceived threats.
Magellanic Woodpecker
I was lucky enough to spot a Magellanic woodpecker on one of my hikes, but it was just a quick moment—no time to snap a photo, just a quick glimpse of its bright red crest before it disappeared into the trees. Being so celebrated and a symbol of Patagonia, I was thrilled to see one in person.
Hiking with a small group a couple days later, we thought we’d found another. We stumbled upon a couple of backpackers who quickly shushed us, “Listen,” one of them whispered, pointing toward the trees. A loud, rhythmic knocking echoed through the forest. I asked if they’d seen the famous red-headed woodpecker, but they said no, not yet. So we all stood there, listening to the “tap tap tap” sound and scanning the trees with eager eyes.
After several minutes of searching, we gave up and walked a few steps further—only to realize the sound wasn’t coming from the trees at all. Behind us, a rock climber was hammering away at a cliff, setting up a climbing route. Not quite the woodpecker moment we’d hoped for, but definitely one to laugh about later.
Mural of a Male Magellanic Woodpecker — The Magellanic woodpecker, the largest woodpecker in South America, is recognized by the male’s crimson crest, while females are almost entirely black. Depictions of this woodpecker are common across Patagonia, symbolizing the region’s rich ecosystems, its connection to indigenous cultures, and the importance of conserving wilderness areas.
Lesser Rhea
The lesser rhea, known as ñandú in Argentina, was a striking sight as I traveled by bus through the Patagonian steppe. The flightless birds, resembling smaller ostriches, have powerful legs and a knack for blending into the landscape. If you’re on the lookout though, their large brown-feathered bodies and long necks make them instantly recognizable as they forage across the plains.
Historically, the lesser rhea was an important resource for the Indigenous peoples of Patagonia, such as the Tehuelche, who relied on its meat, eggs, and feathers. Today, this bird is the subject of conservation studies, as its populations face pressures from habitat loss and hunting. Recent research has shown the role of lesser rheas as ecosystem engineers, dispersing seeds and maintaining the balance of their Patagonian environment.
Andean Condors
The Andean condor, with its massive 10-foot wingspan, is one of the largest flying birds in the world and a key scavenger in Patagonia’s ecosystem. While the California condor has a greater body length, the Andean Condor has a greater wingspan and outweighs its North American cousin, tipping the scales as the heaviest flying bird in the world.
While staying in 28 de Noviembre—the self-proclaimed capital of the Andean condor—it was incredible to see so many Andean Condors circling high above the hills. Each afternoon as the sun warmed the air, they soared effortlessly on the thermals, their black-and-white feathers standing out against the sky.
Despite their prominence here, condors face threats from habitat loss and slow reproduction rates, making conservation efforts essential. It was meaningful to see condors throughout Patagonia, to witness the respect and recognition they receive, and to appreciate their role as a symbol of the region.
Black-necked Swan
I spotted several black-necked swans in the bay in Puerto Natales, easily recognizable by their black necks contrasting with their bright white bodies. These native swans are considered fairly common in southern South America, and their distinctive red knob at the base of their bills sets them apart.
What stood out most was seeing them with their cygnets—small, gray, fluffy guys staying close to their parents as they moved across the waters.
Southern Lapwing
Southern lapwings are hard to miss in Patagonia—loud, bold, and absolutely everywhere. Their repetitive calls are often the first thing you hear when walking through open fields or near water. As a member of the Charadriidae family, they remind me so much of the killdeer, with their similar bold personalities and distinctive—maybe somewhat annoying—calls. You can always count on them to let you know when they’re nearby!
Crested Caracara
“Caranchos” were by far the most common raptors I encountered in Argentina – you can spot them almost anywhere— soaring in the sky or hunting in the grasslands below. I watched them swoop down for rodents, chase smaller birds, or even scavenge from tourists. I was surprised to learn that their range stretches across much of South America, all the way into Central America and the southern US. With their unique look and bold behavior, they quickly became one of my favorite birds of the trip.
Magellanic Penguins
I had the chance to see Magellanic penguins at Martillo Island, just outside of Ushuaia, and it was one of the highlights of the trip. The penguins were scattered across the small island, waddling across the rocky shoreline and occasionally diving into the water.
Martillo Island is home to thousands of these penguins, and it was incredible to see them so up close and personal, especially since they’re only found in southern South America. Watching them interact with each other was a unique experience I won’t forget!
