Bonito, in Mato Grosso do Sul, is world-famous for its crystal-clear waters and remarkable birdlife, attracting birdwatchers from around the globe. However, this extraordinary destination offers much more than underwater landscapes and memorable birdwatching experiences: it is also home to an impressive diversity of mammals.
Located at the transition between the Cerrado and Pantanal biomes, with strong influences from the Atlantic Forest and Chaco, the Bonito and Serra da Bodoquena region is home to more than 150 species of mammals. This meeting point of different ecosystems creates ideal habitats for a rich and diverse mammal community, ranging from common species to some of South America's most elusive wildlife.
Bonito: A Meeting Point for Mammal Diversity
Bonito's geographic location is one of the key factors behind its remarkable biodiversity. The meeting of the Cerrado, Chaco, and Pantanal, together with remnants of Atlantic Forest protected within a national park, creates a mosaic of landscapes that includes gallery forests, grasslands, savannas, and wetlands.
This variety of habitats provides the right conditions for many different mammal species to thrive, making every visit an opportunity for an unexpected wildlife encounter.
Iconic Mammals and Where to Find Them in Bonito
The Bonito region offers opportunities to see a wide variety of mammals. Many are elusive and require patience, but encountering one of the region's wild mammals can be one of the most memorable moments of a trip.
Mammals of the Rivers and Forests
Capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris): One of the most commonly seen mammals in the region, capybaras are frequently found along rivers, wetlands, and swimming areas around Bonito.
South American Coati (Nasua nasua): Another relatively common species, especially around tourist attractions and recreational areas. Coatis are often seen in groups and can be surprisingly active and curious.
Cay Monkey (Sapajus cay): Capuchin monkeys can be spotted at different attractions and forested areas, depending on the season, time of day, and local conditions.
Crab-eating Fox (Cerdocyon thous): This adaptable canid occurs throughout the region. Although not guaranteed, it can sometimes be encountered during wildlife watching tours, both during the day and at night.
Giants and Elusive Species
Lowland Tapir (Tapirus terrestris): The largest land mammal in South America, the lowland tapir is a solitary herbivore and an important seed disperser. Mostly active at night, it can occasionally be encountered in protected areas such as Serra da Bodoquena National Park.
Giant Anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla): Easily recognized by its distinctive coat and elongated snout, the giant anteater feeds mainly on ants and termites. It is a solitary species associated with grasslands, savannas, and forest edges in the Cerrado and Pantanal.
For more information, see our guide: Giant Anteater Sightings in the Southern Pantanal: A Guide for Birdwatchers.
Southern Tamandua (Tamandua tetradactyla): Smaller than the giant anteater, this species is an excellent climber and can be found in forests, savannas, and open areas. Although primarily associated with trees and vegetation, it can also cross open ground.
Six-banded Armadillo (Euphractus sexcinctus): A relatively common armadillo in open habitats, native grasslands, and cattle ranches. It can be active during the day and is also occasionally encountered during nocturnal wildlife tours.
White-lipped Peccary (Tayassu pecari): A highly social species related to pigs, white-lipped peccaries live in groups and are generally associated with better-preserved areas of native vegetation.
Deer: Several species of deer occur in the region. The chances of seeing them vary according to the location, habitat, season, and time of day.
Wild Cats and Other Carnivores
Jaguar (Panthera onca): The largest cat in the Americas, the jaguar is an important indicator of healthy ecosystems. Although it occurs in the broader region, sightings around Bonito itself are uncommon. Visitors specifically looking for jaguars should consider specialized wildlife-watching destinations and itineraries.
Ocelot (Leopardus pardalis): This medium-sized spotted cat is part of the region's native fauna. It is primarily nocturnal, making direct sightings uncommon. However, tracks, footprints, and territorial markings can sometimes be found during wildlife excursions.
Puma (Puma concolor): Also known in Brazil as onça-parda, the puma is an adaptable predator that occurs throughout the Bonito region and surrounding areas. Many local reserves monitor wildlife using camera traps, which regularly document the species. Direct sightings during tours are rare.
Maned Wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus): The largest canid in South America, the maned wolf is one of the Cerrado's most iconic mammals. With its long legs and reddish coat, it is particularly associated with open landscapes and native Cerrado vegetation. It can sometimes be spotted in the late afternoon, especially in the higher-altitude areas around Bonito.
Crab-eating Fox (Cerdocyon thous): A charismatic and adaptable canid, the crab-eating fox can be encountered at different times of the day during wildlife-watching tours. There are also good opportunities during nocturnal outings. They are often seen in pairs or small family groups and can move quickly, so keep your camera ready!
Threatened Mammals in the Bonito Region
The presence of threatened species in the Bonito region highlights the importance of conservation efforts throughout the area.
The maned wolf, giant anteater, lowland tapir, and jaguar are among the mammals of conservation concern that can find refuge in the region's protected areas and remaining natural habitats.
Seeing one of these animals in the wild is a privilege—and a reminder of the ecological importance of preserving the landscapes that support them.
Responsible Wildlife Watching in Bonito
Wildlife watching in Bonito should always be carried out responsibly to protect animals and maintain the ecological balance of the region.
Visitors should avoid excessive noise, never feed wild animals, follow the recommendations of local guides, and maintain a safe distance that does not interfere with natural behavior.
Responsible ecotourism plays an important role in protecting these ecosystems and ensuring that future generations can continue to experience Bonito's extraordinary wildlife.
Bonito: More Than Birds, a Complete Wildlife Destination
Bonito is already recognized as an exceptional destination for birdwatching, but its remarkable mammal diversity adds another dimension to the experience.
Our birdwatching tours in the Cerrado around Bonito are designed to maximize opportunities to encounter wildlife along the way. While birds are our main focus, mammals are always part of the experience—and sometimes an unexpected encounter becomes the highlight of the day.
The proximity to the Pantanal and the influence of the Chaco further expand the possibilities for seeing mammals associated with these ecosystems. Bonito is therefore an excellent gateway to a broader wildlife experience in central South America.
For birdwatchers planning a larger trip through Brazil, see our guide: The Ultimate Brazil Birding Itinerary: Pantanal, Bonito and the Cerrado.
Every mammal sighting in Bonito is a gift: an unexpected encounter that reflects the health and vitality of the region's ecosystems.
Come and discover the wildlife that thrives beyond Bonito's crystal-clear waters.