# South American wildlife population trends

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/south-american-wildlife-population-trends
> Updated: 2026-08-23T17:35:22.000Z. Sources: 11. Developments: 2.

Wildlife monitoring in Argentina has highlighted contrasting trends for different species. Annual surveys of migratory steamer ducks in Buenos Aires Province show that common, gray-headed, and critically endangered red steamer duck populations remain at “concerning levels” with no significant recovery due to habitat loss, exotic predators, and wind-farm development.

In contrast, guanaco populations in Santa Cruz Province have shown significant growth. Researchers recorded over 2 million individuals in 2023, with projections suggesting the population could exceed 2.5 million by 2026 if current growth rates persist. 

On an international scale, the third annual International Guanaco Day was observed on August 23. The initiative, led by over 40 South American organizations, emphasizes the guanaco’s role as an “ecosystem engineer” in the Patagonian landscape. While some regions like Magallanes and parts of Argentina categorize the species as Least Concern, broader historical trends show a significant decline from tens of millions to approximately 3 million individuals over the last 200 years.

Recent conservation efforts in Chile have expanded these initiatives. In the Araucanía region, the Fundación Luan, Rewilding Argentina, and Fundación Huilo Huilo are preparing to reintroduce guanacos to the Lonquimay mountains this November, aiming to restore biological corridors after a century of absence. Meanwhile, in Tierra del Fuego, the Chilean portion of the island is estimated to host up to 240,000 individuals. The species remains culturally significant, historically serving as a vital resource for the Selk’nam people.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-23: Guanaco conservation efforts highlighted on International Guanaco Day

International Guanaco Day highlights conservation efforts for the Lama guanicoe, including a major reintroduction project in Chile's Araucanía region and significant populations in Tierra del Fuego.

11 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/international-guanaco-day-highlights-ecological-importance-of-south-american-camelids

### 2026-08-03: Argentina wildlife surveys show critical bird numbers and booming guanaco population

Argentina's wildlife monitoring shows steamer duck numbers remain low while guanaco counts in Santa Cruz are projected to surpass 2.5 million by 2026.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/argentina-wildlife-surveys-show-critical-bird-numbers-and-booming-guanaco-population

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Cite as: South American wildlife population trends. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/south-american-wildlife-population-trends