Areas containing wild animals, aesthetically, historically or scientifically interesting plants, which are given complete care. They are inviolable, and no activity is authorized there, except official inspections, duly permitted scientific research and those related to the care and assistance of visitors.

Petrified Forest NM (Santa Cruz)
Lost in the immensity of the Patagonian steppe are the petrified remains of gigantic trees, the florest of millions of years ago. 1954; 61,228 has. Sit is soon going to be enlarged.

ANIMAL SPECIES DECLARED NATURAL MONUMENTS

Southern Andean Deer - Huemul
A medium sized deer native to Andean Patagonia; uncontrolled hunting have brought it to the verge of extinction. Declared a Natural Monument in 1996.

Southern Right Whale
Historically one of the most hunted whales, at present its population is gradually recovering. Every year it arrives in Patagonia's bays to calve and breed in ever growing numbers.
Declared a Natural Monument in 1984.

Northern Andean Deer - Taruca
A stocky deer from the high mountain pastures of NW Argentina. Its herds are isolated on scattered high mountain peaks, which have no protection.Declared a Natural Monument in 1996.

Jaguar
The largest land predator of South America is being more restricted in its range; for this reason it is now protected throughout the whole country.
Declared a Natural Monument in 2001.