el-salvador

El Salvador Animals

Trek Zone

Follow the Trail of Wild Nature – Nature Tourism in El Salvador

El Salvador, a small but diverse country in Central America, is home to a variety of fascinating wildlife. From the dense rainforests of El Imposible National Park to the coastal mangroves of the Jiquilisco Bay, El Salvador offers a rich tapestry of habitats that support a wide range of animal species.

One of the most iconic animals found in El Salvador is the resplendent quetzal, a stunning bird known for its vibrant green and red plumage. This elusive creature can be spotted in the cloud forests of the El Impossible National Park, where it flits gracefully through the canopy in search of fruit and insects. Additionally, the country is also home to the Central American agouti, a small mammal with a distinctive appearance, often seen foraging for food in the underbrush of the country's forests. Join us as we explore the incredible wildlife that calls El Salvador home.

Mammals of El Salvador

In the lush landscapes of El Salvador, one can encounter a variety of fascinating mammals that call this Central American nation home. The nine-banded armadillo, with its distinctive armor-like shell, forages through the underbrush, while the mantled howler monkey fills the canopy with its resonant calls. Agile white-tailed deer roam the forests, and the elusive puma, also known as the mountain lion, reigns as a top predator in more remote areas. The Central American agouti, a rodent with a love for seeds and fruit, scurries along the forest floor. These species, among others, contribute to the rich tapestry of wildlife that thrives in El Salvador's diverse ecosystems.

Birds of El Salvador

El Salvador, a country rich in avian diversity, is home to an array of bird species that captivate birdwatchers and tourists alike. Among the feathered inhabitants, the resplendent Turquoise-browed Motmot, known locally as the Torogoz, stands out with its vibrant colors and is revered as the national bird. The country's diverse ecosystems, ranging from coastal areas to mountainous regions, provide habitats for species such as the elegant Great Egret, the stealthy Black Hawk-Eagle, and the sociable Montezuma Oropendola with its unique hanging nests. Bird enthusiasts may also spot the colorful Painted Bunting or the melodious Rufous-capped Warbler, adding to the rich tapestry of El Salvador's avian life.

Top Spots for Wildlife Observation in El Salvador

  • Montecristo National Park, nestled in the mountainous northwest corner of El Salvador bordering Guatemala and Honduras, is a cloud forest sanctuary where visitors can spot a variety of wildlife. The dense canopy is home to spider monkeys, pumas, and the elusive margay. Birdwatchers can delight in the sight of resplendent quetzals, highland guans, and the colorful turquoise-browed motmot.
  • El Imposible National Park, located in the southwestern part of the country, is one of the last remnants of the tropical dry forest in Central America. This rugged terrain is a haven for endangered species such as the paca, the northern tamandua, and the king vulture. The park's rivers and streams are also home to a variety of amphibians, including the Salvadoran burrowing toad.
  • Bahía de Jiquilisco Biosphere Reserve, along the Pacific coast, is an intricate network of mangrove forests, estuaries, and barrier islands. This rich ecosystem supports a diverse array of species, including the American crocodile, the olive ridley sea turtle, and the four-eyed fish. The reserve is also a critical habitat for resident and migratory birds, such as the roseate spoonbill and the blue-winged teal.
  • San Diego and La Barra Salt Ponds, near the coastal town of La Unión, are important wetlands that provide a sanctuary for numerous bird species. Visitors can observe the black-necked stilt, the white-throated magpie-jay, and the northern jacana. The salt ponds are also frequented by various species of ducks and herons.
  • Los Volcanes National Park, encompassing the iconic volcanoes of Izalco, Santa Ana, and Cerro Verde, offers a unique landscape for wildlife. The park's higher altitudes are home to the agile deer and the nine-banded armadillo. Bird enthusiasts can find the blue-throated motmot and the orange-fronted parakeet among the volcanic slopes.

Where to next? Discover country icon Guatemala, a country in the region worth visiting, or use the destination finder