The fires That every year devastate Patagonia are putting thousands of animal species at risk, many of which already threatened by the destruction of the habitat and hunting. With beyond 23,000 hectares burnedthe biodiversity budget is dramatic: Reptiles, amphibians, birds and mammals They see their destroyed environment, with often irreversible consequences.
The species in the process of extinction
Some of the most vulnerable species are already considered in danger of extinction, such as theHuemula rare and shy deer of which they remain less than 500 specimens in Argentina. Excellent swimmer, he is a symbol of Patagonian fauna, but the continuous fires they increasingly reduce its territory. Also the Mangangáthe Calabrone of Patagonia, risks disappearingjeopardizing the pollination of many local plants.
Birds
The birds, although they can escape in flight, still suffer serious losses: destroyed nests, burnt eggs and chicks without escape. Among the affected species there is the Patagonia giant woodpeckerwhich communicates with the characteristic sound of its beak on the wood, and the chucaoa small bird whose song is considered to be a good omen. Also the mysterious Owl Batarazwho makes himself felt only at night in the forests of Coihue, he sees his habitat reduced to ashes.
Mammals and reptiles
Mammals and reptiles suffer even more devastating damage. The Huillína relative of the otter, is an indicator of the health of the Patagonical rivers and lakes, but the fire threatens its delicate aquatic ecosystem. The pudúthe second smaller deer in the world, is particularly vulnerable because it finds refuge in the low vegetation, which is quickly destroyed by the flames.
The great predators
The great predators are not free of dangers: the pumathe greatest feline capable of making melts, and the rare Huiña catthe most threatened feline of the Andean forest, see their territory drastically reducing themselves, increasing conflicts with man. Also the little one wildwhich is hiding among the trees to rest, risks not finding more confident shelters.
Not just wildlife
In addition to native animals, even those introduced by man, such as Horses, cows, sheep, dogs and catsare often left behind without the possibility of escape. Fires in Patagonia are not only an ecological problem, but also a drama for the most defenseless animals.
