Brazil has the greatest diversity of species of vertebrate animals, amphibians, and primates in the world1. There are three times more species of freshwater fish in Brazil than anywhere else in the world1. Brazil has the greatest variety of bird species in South America and the third in the world in terms of mammal species1. The Atlantic Forest is among the five regions on the planet with the most native species, of which 17% are birds and 10% are amphibians and mammals found only in Brazilian fauna. Brazil is considered to have the greatest biodiversity of any country on the planet.. It contains the largest number of known species of freshwater mammals and fish, and is the second country in the world with the greatest diversity of amphibians, the third in terms of bird diversity, and the fourth in reptiles. Here are just some of Brazil's amazing menagerie.
Giant River Otter.
Of all the rainforest animals in Brazil, the giant otter is one of the most vulnerable species due to hunting.
Scientific name: Pteronura brasiliensis
Size and appearance: Up to 6 feet (183 cm). They have a chocolate brown, sometimes reddish, fur that is very dense, maintaining the skin dry. They also have a white mark on the throat, which the animals use to identify one another. Beyond that, the giant otters have a short muzzle and ball-shaped head.
Weight: About 75 pounds (34 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 10 to 13 years
Conservation status: Endangered, meaning this animal species are at very high risk of extinction in the wild, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Poaching for fur trading, together with habitat destruction and degradation, leads to a severe decrease in the giant river otter population.
Hunting and diet: These Amazon Rainforest mammals are close to being apex predators, hunted only by the jaguar, caiman, and anaconda. These otters hunt alone or in groups, and fish, including the piranha, make up most of their diet.
Of all the rainforest animals in Brazil, the giant otter is one of the most vulnerable species due to hunting.
Scientific name: Pteronura brasiliensis
Size and appearance: Up to 6 feet (183 cm). They have a chocolate brown, sometimes reddish, fur that is very dense, maintaining the skin dry. They also have a white mark on the throat, which the animals use to identify one another. Beyond that, the giant otters have a short muzzle and ball-shaped head.
Weight: About 75 pounds (34 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 10 to 13 years
Conservation status: Endangered, meaning this animal species are at very high risk of extinction in the wild, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Poaching for fur trading, together with habitat destruction and degradation, leads to a severe decrease in the giant river otter population.
Hunting and diet: These Amazon Rainforest mammals are close to being apex predators, hunted only by the jaguar, caiman, and anaconda. These otters hunt alone or in groups, and fish, including the piranha, make up most of their diet.
Brazilian Ruby
The Brazilian ruby is a relatively large hummingbird, and it is the only species placed in the genus Clytolaema.
Scientific name: Clytolaema rubricauda
Size and appearance: Body length, 4 to 6 inches (10 to 11.5 cm). The males are green with a coppery back and rump and a reddish tail and throat. In contrast, the females are green above and cinnamon below.
Weight: 0.25 to 0.32 ounces (7 to 9 gr).
Lifespan in the wild: 12 to 15 years
Conservation status: Least concerned, meaning the Brazilian ruby is at relatively low risk of extinction, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Unknown.
Hunting and diet: They feed primarily on nectar from flowers of trees, herbs, and shrubs. They use their straw-like tongue to retrieve the nectar licking it up to 13 times per second.
The Brazilian ruby is a relatively large hummingbird, and it is the only species placed in the genus Clytolaema.
Scientific name: Clytolaema rubricauda
Size and appearance: Body length, 4 to 6 inches (10 to 11.5 cm). The males are green with a coppery back and rump and a reddish tail and throat. In contrast, the females are green above and cinnamon below.
Weight: 0.25 to 0.32 ounces (7 to 9 gr).
Lifespan in the wild: 12 to 15 years
Conservation status: Least concerned, meaning the Brazilian ruby is at relatively low risk of extinction, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Unknown.
Hunting and diet: They feed primarily on nectar from flowers of trees, herbs, and shrubs. They use their straw-like tongue to retrieve the nectar licking it up to 13 times per second.
Giant Anteater
These big edentate animals swallow about 35,000 ants and termites every day. Beyond that, this Brazilian animal is not aggressive, but it can be fierce. It has 4 in/10 cm long claws and can fight off predators, such as the jaguar.
Scientific name: Myrmecophaga tridactyla
Size and appearance: Head and body, 6 to 49 inches (15 to 125 cm); tail, 7 to 35 inches (18 to 89 cm). The giant anteaters have no teeth, only a long tongue to lap up thousands of ants every day. They are covered in grayish-brown fur with white front legs, black stripes running from the chest to the back, and a bushy tail.
Weight: 40 to 140 pounds (18 to 63 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 14 years
Conservation status: Vulnerable, meaning the giant anteater is at high risk of extinction in the wild, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: The development of urban areas, agriculture, poaching, road traffic, and natural system modifications, as in forest fires, contribute to the decreasing population of the giant anteater.
Hunting and diet: The giant anteaters use their sharp claws to tear an opening into an anthill and flicks their long tongues into the whole up to 150 times per minute. Because the ants fight back with painful stings, the anteaters only feast for about a minute before moving on. Also, they never destroy the nest, so they have a place to feed later.
These big edentate animals swallow about 35,000 ants and termites every day. Beyond that, this Brazilian animal is not aggressive, but it can be fierce. It has 4 in/10 cm long claws and can fight off predators, such as the jaguar.
Scientific name: Myrmecophaga tridactyla
Size and appearance: Head and body, 6 to 49 inches (15 to 125 cm); tail, 7 to 35 inches (18 to 89 cm). The giant anteaters have no teeth, only a long tongue to lap up thousands of ants every day. They are covered in grayish-brown fur with white front legs, black stripes running from the chest to the back, and a bushy tail.
Weight: 40 to 140 pounds (18 to 63 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 14 years
Conservation status: Vulnerable, meaning the giant anteater is at high risk of extinction in the wild, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: The development of urban areas, agriculture, poaching, road traffic, and natural system modifications, as in forest fires, contribute to the decreasing population of the giant anteater.
Hunting and diet: The giant anteaters use their sharp claws to tear an opening into an anthill and flicks their long tongues into the whole up to 150 times per minute. Because the ants fight back with painful stings, the anteaters only feast for about a minute before moving on. Also, they never destroy the nest, so they have a place to feed later.
Ocelot
These nocturnal cats are known for having a solitary life within a home range of as much as 4,200 soccer fields.
Scientific name: Leopardus pardalis
Size and appearance: 28 to 35 inches (71 to 89 cm). Ocelots are sleek animals with a gorgeous dappled coat and are twice the average house cat’s size. Namely, their body is covered with solid black markings on a creamy, tawny, yellowish, reddish-gray, or gray fur.
Weight: 24 to 35 pounds (11 to 16 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 10 to 13 years
Conservation status: Least concerned, meaning the ocelot is at relatively low risk of extinction, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Urban development, agriculture, mining, road traffic, hunting, recreational activities, and pollution are some of the reasons the ocelot population is decreasing.
Hunting and diet: These nocturnal cats usually hunt iguanas, fish, frogs, rabbits, and rodents, but they also climb trees to stalk monkeys and birds. Like the jaguar, the ocelot can swim well.
These nocturnal cats are known for having a solitary life within a home range of as much as 4,200 soccer fields.
Scientific name: Leopardus pardalis
Size and appearance: 28 to 35 inches (71 to 89 cm). Ocelots are sleek animals with a gorgeous dappled coat and are twice the average house cat’s size. Namely, their body is covered with solid black markings on a creamy, tawny, yellowish, reddish-gray, or gray fur.
Weight: 24 to 35 pounds (11 to 16 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 10 to 13 years
Conservation status: Least concerned, meaning the ocelot is at relatively low risk of extinction, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Urban development, agriculture, mining, road traffic, hunting, recreational activities, and pollution are some of the reasons the ocelot population is decreasing.
Hunting and diet: These nocturnal cats usually hunt iguanas, fish, frogs, rabbits, and rodents, but they also climb trees to stalk monkeys and birds. Like the jaguar, the ocelot can swim well.
Maned Wolf
The Maned wolf gets its name from its mane, which stands erect when danger is sensed.
Scientific name: Chrysocyon brachyurus
Size and appearance: Head-body length of 39 inches (99 cm) with the tail adding another 18 inches (45 cm). It is about 35 inches (89 cm) at the shoulders. As the largest canine found in Brazil, let alone South America, the maned wolf is reddish-brown to golden orange with long black legs and a distinctive black mane.
Weight: 44 to 73 pounds (20 to 33 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: Unknown, but in captivity, 12 to 15 years
Conservation status: Near threatened, meaning the maned wolf is likely to become vulnerable soon, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Agriculture, road traffic, and illegal hunting are some of the reasons why the maned wolf is a near threatened animal in Brazil and the world.
Hunting and diet: The maned wolf avoids hunting during the daytime unless it’s cold and cloudy. This solitary wolf hunts alone and uses its large ears to listen for prey animals in the grass.
The Maned wolf gets its name from its mane, which stands erect when danger is sensed.
Scientific name: Chrysocyon brachyurus
Size and appearance: Head-body length of 39 inches (99 cm) with the tail adding another 18 inches (45 cm). It is about 35 inches (89 cm) at the shoulders. As the largest canine found in Brazil, let alone South America, the maned wolf is reddish-brown to golden orange with long black legs and a distinctive black mane.
Weight: 44 to 73 pounds (20 to 33 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: Unknown, but in captivity, 12 to 15 years
Conservation status: Near threatened, meaning the maned wolf is likely to become vulnerable soon, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Agriculture, road traffic, and illegal hunting are some of the reasons why the maned wolf is a near threatened animal in Brazil and the world.
Hunting and diet: The maned wolf avoids hunting during the daytime unless it’s cold and cloudy. This solitary wolf hunts alone and uses its large ears to listen for prey animals in the grass.
Common Marmoset
The common marmosets are unique primates with a rather unusual appearance and several particular adaptations that inhabit the Brazilian coastal Atlantic forest.
Scientific name: Callithrix jacchus
Size and appearance: About 7 inches (18 cm) high. Common marmosets are tiny monkeys with relatively long tails. The pelage of the marmoset is multicolored, being sprinkled with brown, gray, and yellow. It also has white ear tufts, and the tail is banded.
Weight: around 9 ounces (255 gr).
Lifespan in the wild: 4 to 6 years
Conservation status: Least concern, meaning it has a relatively low risk of extinction.
Threats: Agriculture and hunting are the main threats to this Brazilian monkey.
Hunting and diet: The marmosets use their claw-like nails to cling to tree trunks and chew a hole in them. The monkeys will then lick up the exudates. Besides, they also eat insects.
The common marmosets are unique primates with a rather unusual appearance and several particular adaptations that inhabit the Brazilian coastal Atlantic forest.
Scientific name: Callithrix jacchus
Size and appearance: About 7 inches (18 cm) high. Common marmosets are tiny monkeys with relatively long tails. The pelage of the marmoset is multicolored, being sprinkled with brown, gray, and yellow. It also has white ear tufts, and the tail is banded.
Weight: around 9 ounces (255 gr).
Lifespan in the wild: 4 to 6 years
Conservation status: Least concern, meaning it has a relatively low risk of extinction.
Threats: Agriculture and hunting are the main threats to this Brazilian monkey.
Hunting and diet: The marmosets use their claw-like nails to cling to tree trunks and chew a hole in them. The monkeys will then lick up the exudates. Besides, they also eat insects.
Capybara
The world’s largest rodent, the massive Capybara is as heavy as an adult human.
As a matter of fact, the word ‘capybara’ is believed to mean ‘master of the grasses’, whereas the scientific name of this species means ‘water hog’ in Greek.
Scientific name: Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris
Size and appearance: About 4.6 feet (140 cm) long and up to 2 feet (60 cm) high at shoulders. With a barrel-shaped body, short head, and reddish-brown fur, the capybara is the world’s largest rodent.
Weight: 77 to 143 pounds (35 to 65 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: up to 10 years
Conservation status: Least concern, meaning it has a relatively low risk of extinction.
Threats: Hunting and road traffic are the main threats to the capybara.
Hunting and diet: Capybaras feed mainly on grasses, aquatic plants, fruit, and tree bark. The capybaras’ jaw hinge is not perpendicular, so they chew food by grinding back-and-forth rather than side-to-side. These wild animals are often prey for jaguars, pumas, ocelots, caimans, and green anacondas.
The world’s largest rodent, the massive Capybara is as heavy as an adult human.
As a matter of fact, the word ‘capybara’ is believed to mean ‘master of the grasses’, whereas the scientific name of this species means ‘water hog’ in Greek.
Scientific name: Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris
Size and appearance: About 4.6 feet (140 cm) long and up to 2 feet (60 cm) high at shoulders. With a barrel-shaped body, short head, and reddish-brown fur, the capybara is the world’s largest rodent.
Weight: 77 to 143 pounds (35 to 65 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: up to 10 years
Conservation status: Least concern, meaning it has a relatively low risk of extinction.
Threats: Hunting and road traffic are the main threats to the capybara.
Hunting and diet: Capybaras feed mainly on grasses, aquatic plants, fruit, and tree bark. The capybaras’ jaw hinge is not perpendicular, so they chew food by grinding back-and-forth rather than side-to-side. These wild animals are often prey for jaguars, pumas, ocelots, caimans, and green anacondas.
Crab-eating Fox
The Crab-eating fox is mainly nocturnal and is also active during dusk, spending the day in a den dug by other animals.
Scientific name: Cerdocyon thous
Size and appearance: Head and body, 25 inches (63 cm); tail, 11 inches (28 cm). The crab-eating fox is predominantly greyish-brown, with red areas on the face and legs and black-tipped ears and tail. It has short, strong legs, and its tail is long and bushy.
Weight: 10 to 17 pounds (5 to 8 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 11 years
Conservation status: Least concerned, meaning the ocelot is at relatively low risk of extinction, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: At the moment, invasive non-native species and diseases are the main threats for the crab-eating fox.
Hunting and diet: These foxes search for crabs and crustaceans on muddy floodplains during the wet season and insects in the dry season. They also hunt rodents, birds, tortoises, fruit, eggs, and lizards.
The Crab-eating fox is mainly nocturnal and is also active during dusk, spending the day in a den dug by other animals.
Scientific name: Cerdocyon thous
Size and appearance: Head and body, 25 inches (63 cm); tail, 11 inches (28 cm). The crab-eating fox is predominantly greyish-brown, with red areas on the face and legs and black-tipped ears and tail. It has short, strong legs, and its tail is long and bushy.
Weight: 10 to 17 pounds (5 to 8 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 11 years
Conservation status: Least concerned, meaning the ocelot is at relatively low risk of extinction, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: At the moment, invasive non-native species and diseases are the main threats for the crab-eating fox.
Hunting and diet: These foxes search for crabs and crustaceans on muddy floodplains during the wet season and insects in the dry season. They also hunt rodents, birds, tortoises, fruit, eggs, and lizards.
Southern Tamandua
The Southern tamandua is a unique anteater, which is equally arboreal and terrestrial. This animal is nicknamed ‘lesser anteater’ due to being smaller than the related giant anteater.
Scientific name: Tamandua tetradactyla
Size and appearance: Head and body, 13 to 35 inches (33 to 89 cm); tail, 15 to 26 inches (38 to 66 cm). It has four clawed digits on the forefeet and five on the hind feet. The snout is long and decurved with an opening only as wide as the stick’s diameter, from which the 16-inch tongue is protruded.
Weight: 3 to 17 pounds (1.4 to 8 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 9 years
Conservation status: Least concern, meaning it has a relatively low risk of extinction.
Threats: Agriculture, hunting, natural fires, and road traffic are the main threats to the Southern tamandua.
Hunting and diet: The southern tamanduas eat ants and termites but also eat a small amount of fruit.
The Southern tamandua is a unique anteater, which is equally arboreal and terrestrial. This animal is nicknamed ‘lesser anteater’ due to being smaller than the related giant anteater.
Scientific name: Tamandua tetradactyla
Size and appearance: Head and body, 13 to 35 inches (33 to 89 cm); tail, 15 to 26 inches (38 to 66 cm). It has four clawed digits on the forefeet and five on the hind feet. The snout is long and decurved with an opening only as wide as the stick’s diameter, from which the 16-inch tongue is protruded.
Weight: 3 to 17 pounds (1.4 to 8 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 9 years
Conservation status: Least concern, meaning it has a relatively low risk of extinction.
Threats: Agriculture, hunting, natural fires, and road traffic are the main threats to the Southern tamandua.
Hunting and diet: The southern tamanduas eat ants and termites but also eat a small amount of fruit.
Golden Lion Tamarin
The Golden lion tamarin is a small, endangered primate endemic to the Atlantic coast of Brazil. Despite its name, this monkey isn’t related to lions.
Scientific name: Leontopithecus rosalia
Size and appearance: Head and body, 7.5 to 8.75 inches (19 to 22 cm); tail, 10.25 to 13.5 inches (26 to 34 cm). It has a bright reddish-orange pelage and extra long hairs around the face.
Weight: 14 to 29 ounces (396 to 822 gr).
Lifespan in the wild: 15 years
Conservation status: Endangered, meaning it has a very high risk of extinction in the wild, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Ever-expanding lodging, agriculture, natural fire, and road traffic are the main threats to the golden lion tamarin.
Hunting and diet: These monkeys eat fruits, flowers, nectar, bird eggs, insects, and small vertebrates.
The Golden lion tamarin is a small, endangered primate endemic to the Atlantic coast of Brazil. Despite its name, this monkey isn’t related to lions.
Scientific name: Leontopithecus rosalia
Size and appearance: Head and body, 7.5 to 8.75 inches (19 to 22 cm); tail, 10.25 to 13.5 inches (26 to 34 cm). It has a bright reddish-orange pelage and extra long hairs around the face.
Weight: 14 to 29 ounces (396 to 822 gr).
Lifespan in the wild: 15 years
Conservation status: Endangered, meaning it has a very high risk of extinction in the wild, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Ever-expanding lodging, agriculture, natural fire, and road traffic are the main threats to the golden lion tamarin.
Hunting and diet: These monkeys eat fruits, flowers, nectar, bird eggs, insects, and small vertebrates.
Azara's Agouti
Resembling the red squirrels in Europe, Azara’s agoutis are rodents named after Spanish naturalist Félix de Azara.
Scientific name: Dasyprocta azarae
Size and appearance: Body length, 16 to 24 inches (41 to 62 cm); tail, 1.6 to 4 inches (10 to 25 cm). This rodent has speckled brown fur with a lighter-toned underside. It also has five toes on its front feet and only three toes on its hind feet.
Weight: 3 to 9 pounds (1.3 to 4 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: up to 20 years
Conservation status: Not evaluated.
Threats: The population is unknown and may have gone locally extinct in some areas due to hunting.
Hunting and diet: Azara’s agoutis are herbivores. They feed on plant material, fruits, seeds, and nuts. They are also known as one of the only animals that can open a Brazil nut unaided, using their exceptionally sharp teeth and jaw strength.
Resembling the red squirrels in Europe, Azara’s agoutis are rodents named after Spanish naturalist Félix de Azara.
Scientific name: Dasyprocta azarae
Size and appearance: Body length, 16 to 24 inches (41 to 62 cm); tail, 1.6 to 4 inches (10 to 25 cm). This rodent has speckled brown fur with a lighter-toned underside. It also has five toes on its front feet and only three toes on its hind feet.
Weight: 3 to 9 pounds (1.3 to 4 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: up to 20 years
Conservation status: Not evaluated.
Threats: The population is unknown and may have gone locally extinct in some areas due to hunting.
Hunting and diet: Azara’s agoutis are herbivores. They feed on plant material, fruits, seeds, and nuts. They are also known as one of the only animals that can open a Brazil nut unaided, using their exceptionally sharp teeth and jaw strength.
Bush Dog
This Brazilian animal is so rare that in the past, it was thought to be extinct. They were first discovered using fossil records in caves in Brazil, and, having never been seen before this, it was thought they no longer existed.
Scientific name: Speothos venaticus
Size and appearance: Head and body, 22 to 29 inches (56 to 74 cm); tall, 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm). The bush dog has a squat body, long, reddish-brown fur, and webbed feet.
Weight: 13 pounds (6 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 10 years
Conservation status: Near threatened, meaning it is likely to become vulnerable soon, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Ever-expanding lodging, agriculture, hunting, and invasive non-native species are the bush dog’s main threats.
Hunting and diet: Bush dogs are carnivores, and they prey mostly on agoutis, capybaras, pacas, and acouchis. Bush dogs are monogamous and live in extended
This Brazilian animal is so rare that in the past, it was thought to be extinct. They were first discovered using fossil records in caves in Brazil, and, having never been seen before this, it was thought they no longer existed.
Scientific name: Speothos venaticus
Size and appearance: Head and body, 22 to 29 inches (56 to 74 cm); tall, 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm). The bush dog has a squat body, long, reddish-brown fur, and webbed feet.
Weight: 13 pounds (6 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 10 years
Conservation status: Near threatened, meaning it is likely to become vulnerable soon, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Ever-expanding lodging, agriculture, hunting, and invasive non-native species are the bush dog’s main threats.
Hunting and diet: Bush dogs are carnivores, and they prey mostly on agoutis, capybaras, pacas, and acouchis. Bush dogs are monogamous and live in extended
South American Coati
The South American coati, also known as the coatimundi, is a member of the raccoon family.
Scientific name: Nasua nasua
Size and appearance: Body length, 34 to 45 inches (85 to 113 cm). Their coat can be brown, gray, red, and whitish. The snout is elongated and dark, while the tail is brown with yellow rings.
Weight: 4.4 to 15 pounds (2 to 7 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 7 to 14 years
Conservation status: Least concerned, meaning the South American coati is at relatively low risk of extinction, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Wood harvesting, ever-evolving lodging, hunting, and livestock farming are threats to the South American Coati.
Hunting and diet: They feed on fruit, beetles, scorpions, spiders, lizards, rodents, chickens, other small animals, and bird eggs.
The South American coati, also known as the coatimundi, is a member of the raccoon family.
Scientific name: Nasua nasua
Size and appearance: Body length, 34 to 45 inches (85 to 113 cm). Their coat can be brown, gray, red, and whitish. The snout is elongated and dark, while the tail is brown with yellow rings.
Weight: 4.4 to 15 pounds (2 to 7 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 7 to 14 years
Conservation status: Least concerned, meaning the South American coati is at relatively low risk of extinction, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Wood harvesting, ever-evolving lodging, hunting, and livestock farming are threats to the South American Coati.
Hunting and diet: They feed on fruit, beetles, scorpions, spiders, lizards, rodents, chickens, other small animals, and bird eggs.
Toco Toucan
The Toco toucan is the largest and probably the best-known species in the toucan family. Its bill is amongst the largest of any animal.
Scientific name: Ramphastos toco
Size and appearance: Body length, 21 to 25 inches (53 to 63 cm); bill, up to 9 inches (23 cm). The toco toucan is the largest species in the toucan family. These birds have black feathers and a white throat and face, while their eyes are surrounded by blue and orange skin. Their bills are yellow-orange with a black base and a large spot on the tip.
Weight: 1 to 2 pounds (0,5 to 0,9 grams).
Lifespan in the wild: 18 to 26 years
Conservation status: Least concern, meaning it has a relatively low risk of extinction.
Threats: Unknown.
Hunting and diet: Toco toucans are omnivores, meaning they feed mainly on fruits, berries, nuts, insects, frogs, small reptiles, small birds, and bird’s eggs.
The Toco toucan is the largest and probably the best-known species in the toucan family. Its bill is amongst the largest of any animal.
Scientific name: Ramphastos toco
Size and appearance: Body length, 21 to 25 inches (53 to 63 cm); bill, up to 9 inches (23 cm). The toco toucan is the largest species in the toucan family. These birds have black feathers and a white throat and face, while their eyes are surrounded by blue and orange skin. Their bills are yellow-orange with a black base and a large spot on the tip.
Weight: 1 to 2 pounds (0,5 to 0,9 grams).
Lifespan in the wild: 18 to 26 years
Conservation status: Least concern, meaning it has a relatively low risk of extinction.
Threats: Unknown.
Hunting and diet: Toco toucans are omnivores, meaning they feed mainly on fruits, berries, nuts, insects, frogs, small reptiles, small birds, and bird’s eggs.
Tufted Capuchin
The tufted capuchin is named after friars dressed in brown robes with hoods covering their heads. These animals are curious and tend to play with anything they find.
Scientific name: Sapajus apella
Size and appearance: Head and body, 13 to 22 inches (33 to 56 cm); tail, 15 to 22 inches (38 to 56 cm). Also known as Margarita Island capuchins, the tufted capuchin is brownish gray, while its belly is slightly lighter-colored. It has a rougher fur and a long, thick tail.
Weight: 4 to 10 pounds (1.8 to 4.5 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 15 to 25 years
Conservation status: Least concern, meaning it has a relatively low risk of extinction.
Threats: Ever-expanding lodging, agriculture, natural fire, hunting, and road traffic are the main threats to the tufted capuchin.
Hunting and diet: The tufted capuchin diet relies heavily upon eggs, insects, pith, small mammals, birds, squirrels, small reptiles, nuts, and nectar. In addition to other small mammals, tufted capuchins are a confirmed predator of the titi monkey.
The tufted capuchin is named after friars dressed in brown robes with hoods covering their heads. These animals are curious and tend to play with anything they find.
Scientific name: Sapajus apella
Size and appearance: Head and body, 13 to 22 inches (33 to 56 cm); tail, 15 to 22 inches (38 to 56 cm). Also known as Margarita Island capuchins, the tufted capuchin is brownish gray, while its belly is slightly lighter-colored. It has a rougher fur and a long, thick tail.
Weight: 4 to 10 pounds (1.8 to 4.5 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 15 to 25 years
Conservation status: Least concern, meaning it has a relatively low risk of extinction.
Threats: Ever-expanding lodging, agriculture, natural fire, hunting, and road traffic are the main threats to the tufted capuchin.
Hunting and diet: The tufted capuchin diet relies heavily upon eggs, insects, pith, small mammals, birds, squirrels, small reptiles, nuts, and nectar. In addition to other small mammals, tufted capuchins are a confirmed predator of the titi monkey.
Yellow Armadillo
Also known as the six-banded armadillo, this species is the third-largest armadillo after the giant armadillo and the greater long-nosed armadillo.
Scientific name: Euphractus sexcinctus
Size and appearance: Head and body, 16 and 20 inches (40 to 51 cm); tail, 4.7 to 9.4 inches (12 to 24 cm). The carapace is pale yellow to reddish-brown (though not a dark shade of brown or black), marked by scales of equal length, and scantily covered by buff to white bristle-like hairs – unlike the hairy armadillos that are covered by dense hairs.
Weight: 7 to 14 pounds (3.2 to 6.5 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 8 to 12 years
Conservation status: Least concern, meaning it has a relatively low risk of extinction.
Threats: Hunting.
Hunting and diet: The yellow armadillo is an omnivore that feeds on small invertebrates, insects, ants, fruits, carrion, palm nuts, and tubers.
Also known as the six-banded armadillo, this species is the third-largest armadillo after the giant armadillo and the greater long-nosed armadillo.
Scientific name: Euphractus sexcinctus
Size and appearance: Head and body, 16 and 20 inches (40 to 51 cm); tail, 4.7 to 9.4 inches (12 to 24 cm). The carapace is pale yellow to reddish-brown (though not a dark shade of brown or black), marked by scales of equal length, and scantily covered by buff to white bristle-like hairs – unlike the hairy armadillos that are covered by dense hairs.
Weight: 7 to 14 pounds (3.2 to 6.5 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 8 to 12 years
Conservation status: Least concern, meaning it has a relatively low risk of extinction.
Threats: Hunting.
Hunting and diet: The yellow armadillo is an omnivore that feeds on small invertebrates, insects, ants, fruits, carrion, palm nuts, and tubers.
Three-toed Sloth
Also known as maned sloth, the three-toed sloth is the slowest mammal in the world. It moves through the canopy at a rate of about 40 yards (91 m) per day and spends 15 to 20 hours per day sleeping.
Scientific name: Bradypus torquatus
Size and appearance: Head and body, 22 to 30 inches (55 to 75 cm); tail, 2 inches (5 cm). This friendly mammal has a pale brown to gray pelage covering dense, black, and white underfur.
Weight: 9 to 22 pounds (4 to 10 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 12 to 15 years
Conservation status: Vulnerable, meaning the maned three-toed sloth is at high risk of extinction in the wild, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Ever-evolving agriculture, livestock farming, hunting, wood harvesting, and road traffic are the main reasons this animal is at high risk of extinction.
Hunting and diet: The three-toed sloth feeds exclusively on tree and liana leaves, especially cecropia.
Also known as maned sloth, the three-toed sloth is the slowest mammal in the world. It moves through the canopy at a rate of about 40 yards (91 m) per day and spends 15 to 20 hours per day sleeping.
Scientific name: Bradypus torquatus
Size and appearance: Head and body, 22 to 30 inches (55 to 75 cm); tail, 2 inches (5 cm). This friendly mammal has a pale brown to gray pelage covering dense, black, and white underfur.
Weight: 9 to 22 pounds (4 to 10 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 12 to 15 years
Conservation status: Vulnerable, meaning the maned three-toed sloth is at high risk of extinction in the wild, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Ever-evolving agriculture, livestock farming, hunting, wood harvesting, and road traffic are the main reasons this animal is at high risk of extinction.
Hunting and diet: The three-toed sloth feeds exclusively on tree and liana leaves, especially cecropia.
Brazilian Tapir
Brazilian tapir is a species of rhinoceros family and was recognized as a separate species in 1758.
Newborn babies exhibit dappled spots on their bodies, which serve as ideal camouflage. These markings disappear by six months old, after which the young tapirs gain their adult appearance.
Scientific name: Tapirus terrestris
Size and appearance: Body length, 6 to 8 feet (180 to 250 cm); height, 2.5 to 3.5 feet (77 to 108 cm). Brazilian tapir is a species of the rhinoceros family with a characteristic fleshy trunk, which serves as a snorkel when the tapir swims, and it has a dark brown coat.
Weight: 330 to 705 pounds (150 to 320 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 30 to 35 years
Conservation status: Vulnerable, meaning the Brazilian tapir is at high risk of extinction in the wild, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Habitat loss, agriculture, wood harvesting, and hunting are the main reasons this animal is at high risk of extinction.
Hunting and diet: This mammal feeds on fruits, leaves, flowers, and shoots.
Brazilian tapir is a species of rhinoceros family and was recognized as a separate species in 1758.
Newborn babies exhibit dappled spots on their bodies, which serve as ideal camouflage. These markings disappear by six months old, after which the young tapirs gain their adult appearance.
Scientific name: Tapirus terrestris
Size and appearance: Body length, 6 to 8 feet (180 to 250 cm); height, 2.5 to 3.5 feet (77 to 108 cm). Brazilian tapir is a species of the rhinoceros family with a characteristic fleshy trunk, which serves as a snorkel when the tapir swims, and it has a dark brown coat.
Weight: 330 to 705 pounds (150 to 320 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 30 to 35 years
Conservation status: Vulnerable, meaning the Brazilian tapir is at high risk of extinction in the wild, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Habitat loss, agriculture, wood harvesting, and hunting are the main reasons this animal is at high risk of extinction.
Hunting and diet: This mammal feeds on fruits, leaves, flowers, and shoots.
Goliath Birdeater
The goliath birdeater is the biggest spider on the planet. Some scientists call it the puppy spider as it is as big as a puppy.
Scientific name: Theraphosa blondi
Size and appearance: Body length, up to 5.1 inches (13 cm). They are mostly tan to light brown and golden-hued. They can have a leg span up to 12 inches (30 cm). They have large fangs (0.79 to 1.57 in/2 to 4 cm) and bite in self-defense, but their venom is relatively harmless to humans.
Weight: 6.2 ounces (175 grams).
Lifespan in the wild: 3 to 25 years
Conservation status: Not evaluated.
Threats: Unknown.
Hunting and diet: Despite this spider’s name, they rarely prey on birds. Insects, frogs, and rodents are usually part of the menu. Before eating, the spider liquefy the prey’s inside, then they have their meal.
The goliath birdeater is the biggest spider on the planet. Some scientists call it the puppy spider as it is as big as a puppy.
Scientific name: Theraphosa blondi
Size and appearance: Body length, up to 5.1 inches (13 cm). They are mostly tan to light brown and golden-hued. They can have a leg span up to 12 inches (30 cm). They have large fangs (0.79 to 1.57 in/2 to 4 cm) and bite in self-defense, but their venom is relatively harmless to humans.
Weight: 6.2 ounces (175 grams).
Lifespan in the wild: 3 to 25 years
Conservation status: Not evaluated.
Threats: Unknown.
Hunting and diet: Despite this spider’s name, they rarely prey on birds. Insects, frogs, and rodents are usually part of the menu. Before eating, the spider liquefy the prey’s inside, then they have their meal.
Hyacinth Macaw
Hyacinth macaws are the world’s longest parrots and the largest flying parrot species.
Scientific name: Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus
Size and appearance: Body length, 39 inches (100 cm); wingspan, 51 to 59 inches (130 to 150 cm). The hyacinth macaw has impressive cobalt blue feathers, which contrast with their bare yellow eye-ring.
Weight: 2.6 to 3.7 pounds (1,2 to 1,7 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 50 years
Conservation status: Vulnerable, meaning the hyacinth macaw is at high risk of extinction in the wild, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Ever-expanding lodging, agriculture, hunting, and trafficking are the main threats to the hyacinth macaws.
Hunting and diet: These Brazilian birds usually eat nuts from acuri and bocaiuva palms, as well as a wide variety of seeds and tree fruits.
Hyacinth macaws are the world’s longest parrots and the largest flying parrot species.
Scientific name: Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus
Size and appearance: Body length, 39 inches (100 cm); wingspan, 51 to 59 inches (130 to 150 cm). The hyacinth macaw has impressive cobalt blue feathers, which contrast with their bare yellow eye-ring.
Weight: 2.6 to 3.7 pounds (1,2 to 1,7 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 50 years
Conservation status: Vulnerable, meaning the hyacinth macaw is at high risk of extinction in the wild, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Ever-expanding lodging, agriculture, hunting, and trafficking are the main threats to the hyacinth macaws.
Hunting and diet: These Brazilian birds usually eat nuts from acuri and bocaiuva palms, as well as a wide variety of seeds and tree fruits.
Green Anaconda
The green anaconda is the biggest snake in the world – not because it is exceptionally long, but because it is so heavy.
Scientific name: Eunectes murinus
Size and appearance: Body length, 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 m). The green anaconda is the world’s most giant snake hence why its top speed is only 10 mph/16 kph. This Brazilian animal is olive-green with black spots all over its body. Its head has orange-yellow stripes on both sides.
Weight: 66 to 550 pounds (30 to 250 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 10 to 30 years
Conservation status: Not evaluated.
Threats: Unknown.
Hunting and diet: Anacondas are apex predators that feed on other reptiles, sheep, capybaras, fish, birds, and any kind of prey they can catch and swallow. As with any boa constrictors, the anaconda is non-venomous, so it constricts the prey until at least unconscious before swallowing it whole.
The green anaconda is the biggest snake in the world – not because it is exceptionally long, but because it is so heavy.
Scientific name: Eunectes murinus
Size and appearance: Body length, 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 m). The green anaconda is the world’s most giant snake hence why its top speed is only 10 mph/16 kph. This Brazilian animal is olive-green with black spots all over its body. Its head has orange-yellow stripes on both sides.
Weight: 66 to 550 pounds (30 to 250 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 10 to 30 years
Conservation status: Not evaluated.
Threats: Unknown.
Hunting and diet: Anacondas are apex predators that feed on other reptiles, sheep, capybaras, fish, birds, and any kind of prey they can catch and swallow. As with any boa constrictors, the anaconda is non-venomous, so it constricts the prey until at least unconscious before swallowing it whole.
Jaguar
The jaguar is the largest cat native to the American continent and the third in the world. This big cat is often depicted as the national symbol of Brazil and is more easily found in the Amazon region.
Scientific name: Panthera onca
Size and appearance: Head and body, 5 to 6 feet (152 to 180 cm); tail, 27 to 36 inches (69 to 91). As the third largest cat in the world, jaguars are incredibly agile. Their fur is tan to orange with black rosettes.
Weight: 100 to 250 pounds (45 to 114 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 12 to 15 years
Conservation status: Near threatened, meaning it is likely to become vulnerable shortly, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Deforestation for pasture ensures their habitat destruction and modification, which leads to jaguar’s endangerment. Illegal killing is also rapidly decreasing its population. Lastly, forest fires are threatening the jaguar’s food supply.
Hunting and diet: Unlike other cats, jaguars don’t avoid water. In fact, they are formidable swimmers. They are also good climbers and often climb trees to prepare for an ambush. As an apex predator, the jaguar is at the top of the food chain hence not preyed on by any other animal. They hunt fish, turtles, caimans, deers, capybaras, and several other land animals, which they prefer to ambush at night using their mighty jaws to pierce the animals’ skulls.
The jaguar is the largest cat native to the American continent and the third in the world. This big cat is often depicted as the national symbol of Brazil and is more easily found in the Amazon region.
Scientific name: Panthera onca
Size and appearance: Head and body, 5 to 6 feet (152 to 180 cm); tail, 27 to 36 inches (69 to 91). As the third largest cat in the world, jaguars are incredibly agile. Their fur is tan to orange with black rosettes.
Weight: 100 to 250 pounds (45 to 114 kg).
Lifespan in the wild: 12 to 15 years
Conservation status: Near threatened, meaning it is likely to become vulnerable shortly, according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
Threats: Deforestation for pasture ensures their habitat destruction and modification, which leads to jaguar’s endangerment. Illegal killing is also rapidly decreasing its population. Lastly, forest fires are threatening the jaguar’s food supply.
Hunting and diet: Unlike other cats, jaguars don’t avoid water. In fact, they are formidable swimmers. They are also good climbers and often climb trees to prepare for an ambush. As an apex predator, the jaguar is at the top of the food chain hence not preyed on by any other animal. They hunt fish, turtles, caimans, deers, capybaras, and several other land animals, which they prefer to ambush at night using their mighty jaws to pierce the animals’ skulls.
