Argentina is rich in biodiversity thanks to the various ecosystems it has throughout the country. Its fauna is not only diverse in its characteristics, but also in its customs and behaviors. Among them, there are several animals that appear at nightfall. What are they and where can they be found?
Argentinian night hides a vibrant and captivating wildlife, with a great variety of animals that emerge when the sun goes down to carry out their daily activities.
Nocturnal animals have evolved to develop their activities at night as an adaptation strategy to the environment.
This behavior allows them to avoid competitors and active predators during the day, expanding the possibilities of finding food or shelter.
Life at night also offers advantages for certain types of hunting or movement, especially in environments where sunlight can be extreme. Many of these animals have highly specialized senses, such as night vision or acute hearing and smell.
Another crucial factor explaining nocturnality in animals is thermal regulation. In warm environments, such as deserts or tropical regions, being active at night allows them to avoid the high daytime temperatures, reducing the risk of dehydration and overheating.
Animals that appear at nightfall in Argentina
Overa Weasel
It is a species native to South America, favored by the agricultural activity in our country. The first scientific studies on these weasels date back to 1971, but since then there have not been many investigations on this particular specimen.
It is a marsupial that, unfortunately, has a slow displacement, so specimens are frequently run over on the country’s roads. It is not visible throughout the year, but mainly in spring, when it goes out in search of a mate because it is its breeding season.
Bats
There are more than 60 species in the country, from insect-eating ones that help control pests to frugivorous ones that disperse seeds in forests. They are one of the most diverse and fascinating groups of mammals on the planet.
Despite their bad reputation, bats play a fundamental role in the ecosystem, as they pollinate plants, disperse seeds, and control insect populations.
Gray Fox
It is a canid that is found in a wide range of habitats, from forests to urban areas. Its appearance does not differ much from other foxes, except that its tail is grayish, quite long, and has abundant hair.
Its gray fur and bushy tail help it blend into the environment. During the night, the gray fox goes out in search of food, which includes rodents, birds, fruits, and other small animals.
Jaguar
It is the largest feline in America and an emblem of Argentinian wildlife. It is an endangered species that mainly inhabits the region of the Misiones jungle. It has been the subject of numerous conservation efforts in the country.
The “National Conservation Plan for the Jaguar” was created, which according to the Environmental Policy section on Argentina.gob.ar, aims to ensure the conservation and recovery of this emblematic species. Its spotted fur allows it to blend into the dense vegetation of the jungle.
Owls and Nightjars
With their large round eyes and silent flight, the owl and nightjar are representative symbols of the night. In Argentina, we can find various species, each adapted to different habitats. Among all, the burrowing owl and the horned owl stand out, being expert nocturnal hunters.
Fer-de-lance
This reptile is more active at night, especially in summer. It is found in piles of sticks and stones, in humid or wet places (riverbanks and swamps), and is also common in plantations. It is known for causing serious accidents to humans and has potent venom.
Frogs and Toads
They are mostly of nocturnal habits. Among them, the common toad stands out, feeding on insects and being vital for pest control.
Adults are more terrestrial in habits, going to the water only to reproduce. They have great mobility and can travel several kilometers each year.
Moths and Night Butterflies
There is a great variety and multiplicity of species. They hide during the day and are found in dark places such as basements or closets. They are herbivores, but some can also consume animal fat and remains of other insects.
They have a highly developed sense of smell and play an important role in pollinating native plants.
Do you already know our YouTube channel? Subscribe!
