Flora and Fauna

There was so much to see at the Iguaçu National Parks, and I mean a lot more than just the water.  Together, the Argentinian and Brazilian parks make up about 870 sq miles of protected wildlife habitat. Many of these pictures were taken along the paths in the park, and a few are from the Brazilian Bird Park.



Coati--the animal we love to hate.  It is actually a relative of the raccoon, and just about as annoying.  The ones living at the national park are far too accustomed to humans, and are constantly trailing behind or scrounging in garbage or eating areas looking for dropped food.  We've even had cookies snatched out of the side pocket of our backpack and a tray of french fries grabbed right off our table.  They are cute, though, especially the babies.

These little guys were everywhere.

Caiman--a relative of the alligator

One of many little lizards--See him basking on the concrete base to a handrail along the Brazilian trail?

Momma monkey carrying her baby on her back.



Borrowing Grandma's hat at the Bird Park.

Scarlet Ibis

 

Toucan

I have no idea what this is, but it's such an interesting plant.  These flowers hang from small tree-height branches or shorter shrubs.  We've since noticed some even in our own town.