Apure facts for kids
Apure (which means Estado Apure in Spanish) is one of the 23 states that make up Venezuela. Its capital city is San Fernando de Apure. Apure is known for its wide, flat plains called llanos, which are home to many unique animals and plants. It is a large state, covering a big part of southwestern Venezuela.
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Where is Apure State?
Apure State is located in the southwestern part of Venezuela. It shares borders with Colombia to the south and west. To the north, it borders the Venezuelan states of Guárico, Barinas, and Táchira. To the east, it borders Bolívar and Amazonas. The state is mostly flat, covered by vast plains that are crossed by many rivers.
Rivers and Landscape
The most important river in the state is the Apure River, which gives the state its name. This river flows into the mighty Orinoco River. Many other rivers, like the Arauca, Meta, and Capanaparo, also flow through Apure. These rivers often flood the plains during the rainy season, creating large wetlands. This unique landscape supports a rich variety of wildlife.
Animals and Nature
Apure's plains are a natural wonderland, especially during the dry and rainy seasons. Many animals live here, including:
- Capybaras: These are the world's largest rodents. They love to swim and are often seen near rivers.
- Anacondas: Giant snakes that live in the water.
- Caimans: Large reptiles similar to alligators.
- Birds: A huge variety of birds, like herons, storks, and scarlet ibises, fill the skies and wetlands.
- Deer and jaguars: These animals also roam the plains.
The state has several protected areas, like the Santos Luzardo National Park, which help to keep these amazing animals and their homes safe.
What People Do in Apure
The main activities in Apure State are related to farming and ranching.
- Cattle Ranching: Raising cattle is a very important activity here. The vast plains are perfect for large herds of cows.
- Agriculture: Farmers grow crops like corn, rice, and beans.
- Fishing: With so many rivers, fishing is also a common way of life for many people.
Culture and Traditions
The people of Apure, often called llaneros, have a rich culture tied to the plains.
- Music: Joropo is the traditional music of the llanos. It's lively music played with instruments like the harp, cuatro (a small guitar), and maracas.
- Dance: The joropo is also a dance, full of energy and quick footwork.
- Food: Traditional foods often include beef, arepas (corn cakes), and fresh fish from the rivers.
Municipalities and Their Main Towns
Apure State is divided into seven main areas called municipalities. Each municipality has a main town where its government is located.
- Achaguas Municipality: Its main town is Achaguas.
- Biruaca Municipality: Its main town is Biruaca.
- Muñoz Municipality: Its main town is Bruzual.
- Páez Municipality: Its main town is Guasdualito.
- Pedro Camejo Municipality: Its main town is San Juan de Payara.
- Rómulo Gallegos Municipality: Its main town is Elorza.
- San Fernando Municipality: Its main town is San Fernando de Apure, which is also the capital of the state.
Images for kids
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Santos Luzardo National Park, Apure State
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Caiman of the Orinoco River, Hato El Frio, Apure State
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Hato El Cedral, Apure State
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Capybaras at sunset in Muñoz Municipality
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Catholic Cathedral of San Fernando de Apure
See Also
In Spanish: Estado Apure para niños
