Aguaro-Guariquito National Park

Lore & Background

The Aguaro-Guariquito National Park was created by the Venezuelan government under President Rafael Caldera in 1974. It is located south of Guárico State, spanning the municipalities of Francisco de Miranda and Jose Rondon (formerly Las Mercedes). The park covers an area of 585,750 hectares, though a separate figure of 569,000 ha is also mentioned in the source. Its climate is warm with two distinct seasons: a dry summer from November to March and a rainy winter from April to October. The park was established to protect a sample of the Llanos natural formation, ensuring its original conditions are preserved for future generations. It is also designated an Important Bird Area, hosting species such as the rufous-vented chachalaca (Ortalis ruficauda) and the yellow-knobbed curassow (Crax daubentoni).

Reader's Guide

Aguaro-Guariquito National Park holds significance as a protected area in Venezuela's Llanos region, established in 1974 under President Rafael Caldera. Its creation aimed to preserve a representative sample of the natural formation in its original condition for the benefit of present and future generations. The park spans a large area of 585,750 hectares in Guárico state, encompassing the municipalities of Francisco de Miranda and Jose Rondon. Its warm climate features two marked seasons, influencing the local ecosystem. The park is notable for hosting the Amazon river dolphin and is recognized as an Important Bird Area, with resident species including the rufous-vented chachalaca and yellow-knobbed curassow. As a national park, it contributes to the conservation of Venezuela's biodiversity and natural heritage, serving as a refuge for wildlife and a site for ecological study. Its legacy lies in its role as a protected sample of the Llanos, safeguarding its conditions for future generations.

Did You Know?

• The park was established on March 7, 1974.
• It covers an area of 585,750 hectares (5,857 km²).
• It is an Important Bird Area, home to the rufous-vented chachalaca and yellow-knobbed curassow.