FLORA AND FAUNA OBSERVATION

Just 1 km away from the main avenue in El Calafate, in Nimes Lagoon, we get to Solitary Island, an islet which can be reached surrounding Lake Argentino. The islet offers a birds natural reserve, in which it is feasible to appreciate a broad variety of bird species, such as Black-necked Swans, ducks, Chilean Flamingos and even Silvery Grebes.

To go on this excursion, which is appropriate for all ages, visitors just need good footwear, appropriate clothing and the smallest amount of additional equipment (sun-block, sunglasses, cap, etc.)

A few kms further north and west, once in the steppes and forests, the natural habitat blends flora and fauna in such a way that the geographical features, together with the climatic and sighting possibilities, make of this site the dream place for a photographic safari.

Some typical flora species are lenga, ņire and calafate. Among the fauna, we can mention partridges, pumas, foxes, deer, guanacos and rheas, which freely run across the steppes.

There are also many bird species. In the forests, tourists can observe the Black-necked Swan, the Condor, the Black-chested Buzzard-Eagle, the Black-bodied Woodpecker, the Austral Thrush, the Lake Duck and the Green-backed Firecrown, among many others.

There are prearranged outings to value the wonders offered by Patagonian nature, a site bursting with wild life.

Bird-watching walks in Nimes Lagoon
The guided visit to "Nimes Lagoon Municipal Reserve" is a great opportunity to see the local birds, as well as to learn about the characteristics of each of the species (habitat, behaviour, nesting systems, brood, etc.) and their relation with the ecosystem.

These species are the most likely to be seen are: Grebes, Herons, Ibis, Flamingos, Swans, Ducks, Geese, Coots, Hawks, Caracaras, Chimangos, Falcons, Lapwings, Seagulls, Terns, Sandpipers, Oystercatchers, Swallows, Meadowlarks, Mockingbirds, Rufous-backed Negritos and Sierra-finches, among others.