Pato-mergulhão (Brazilian Merganser)

Description:

This bird is threatened with extinction. Around the world there are only 250 individuals living in Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. They like to live in environments with clear water to facilitate the capture of fish. In the environment in which it was photographed there are only 100 individuals. Its beak is long, thin, serrated and curved, adapted to catch fish. Have plume in the neck region being greenish black in the male and the female brown. It has large white label divided on the wing. It has red legs. The wing measures 21 cm. A total length of 55 cm.

Habitat:

These photos were taken in a brazilian park protected by environmental laws, "Serra da Canastra National Park". The habitat is characterized by a mountain-shaped plateau, like a tree trunk cut, vegetation of altitude field, highland tropical climate, high humidity and frequent rains. The park has a rare beauty for nature lovers. It houses numerous species of fauna and flora typical of the Brazilian cerrado environment, such as "maned wolf", "anteater", "pampas deer", several hawks, exotic birds, some endangered species such as the giant armadillo and lush flowers as the "Sempre Viva". The water springs are essential for the proliferation of the vast wildlife. Many streams fall from the plateau and form amazing waterfalls with over 180 meters of free fall. The site has complete infrastructure to accommodate nature lovers, with several hotels and guide services.