The history of Uruguay and its natives: a journey to the heart of our biodiversity

Uruguay, a land of rolling hills, endless coastlines and open skies, takes its name from the river that runs through its bowels: the Uruguay River. In the Guaraní language, “Uruguay” is interpreted as “river of painted birds”, a name that evokes the natural wealth and diversity that has characterized this country since time immemorial.

The name is not a simple geographical label; it is a tribute to the species that have inhabited this region long before us, forming complex and harmonious ecosystems. From the colorful jacana and churrinche to the majestic capybaras and guazúverá, each species is a vital piece in the tapestry of Uruguayan life. This meaning invites us to look beyond the surface, to know, identify, care for and love our biodiversity.

In “Las Nativas”, located in the eastern part of the country, this connection with nature takes on a special meaning. This wildlife refuge not only seeks to preserve local flora and fauna, but also to educate and raise awareness about its importance. More than 2,500 species of native plants and nearly 700 species of vertebrates have been identified in Uruguay, including birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians and fish. In the east, in particular, the landscape is home to a unique mix of ecosystems: grasslands, wetlands and riparian forests that are home to emblematic species such as the rhea, the wild fox and the Creole frog.

Knowing these species is not just a matter of curiosity, but of responsibility. Each one plays a role in the natural balance: insects pollinate, birds disperse seeds, mammals regulate populations and rivers give life to the entire region. When we understand their function, we also understand our dependence on them and the urgency of protecting them.

At Las Nativas, our commitment is not only to conservation, but also to reconnection. Through activities such as guided walks, educational workshops, and environmental regeneration programs, we invite everyone to rediscover the value of native species, not only as ecological resources, but as part of our identity.

To love our biodiversity is to love who we are. Knowing it is the first step to protecting it. And in this task, we are all protagonists. We invite you to be part of this story, to get to know the native species of Uruguay, to identify them, care for them and love them, so that they continue to be the protagonists of a landscape that defines and inspires us.