Ypoá National Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ypoá National Park |
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| Parque Nacional Ypoá | |
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IUCN Category II (National Park)
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Lake Ypoá in Ypoá National Park
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| Location | Paraguarí, Central and Ñeembucú departments, Paraguay |
| Established | 1992 |
| Official name: Lago Ypoá | |
| Designated: | 7 June 1995 |
| Reference #: | 728 |
The Ypoá National Park (which is Parque Nacional Ypoá in Spanish) is a special natural area in Paraguay. It was created in 1992 to protect important wetlands and beautiful landscapes. This park covers a huge area of 1,000 square kilometers. It is located about 150 kilometers away from Asunción, the capital city.
The park stretches across parts of the Paraguarí, Central, and Ñeembucú regions. It includes areas from several districts like Caapucú and Villa Oliva.
Contents
Why Ypoá National Park is Important
Ypoá National Park has a very important job. Its main goal is to protect the amazing wetlands found in the Ñeembucú area. Wetlands are like nature's sponges, full of water and unique plants and animals. The park also works to keep the many different kinds of living things (biodiversity) safe. It protects the special ecosystems and species that live there. Plus, it makes sure the incredibly beautiful natural views stay untouched for everyone to enjoy.
Ancient History of the Area
People have lived in the Ypoá area for a very long time. On the eastern side of the park, you can find long piles of old shells. These piles were made by early people who lived there. They also left behind signs of their campfires. These findings help us learn about the first inhabitants of this land.
Plants You Might See in Ypoá
The plants in Ypoá National Park are special to the Ñeembucú region. You can find many interesting trees and plants here. Some common trees include espinillo, palo negro, and ingá. You might also spot lapacho and yvyra ovi. Other unique plants like pacurí and al yuasy-iy grow in the park. Near the water, you'll see plants like camalote, caña brava, and pirí. These plants are important for the animals that live in the wetlands.
Animals You Might Spot in Ypoá
Ypoá National Park is home to a wide variety of animals. It's a great place for wildlife! You can see many different birds, like colorful toucans and the large ñandú (a type of South American ostrich). Other birds include suruku'a, inambú, mbiguá, chahá, and caburé.
The park also has many mammals. You might spot capybaras, which are the largest rodents in the world. Rabbits, monkeys, and different types of deer like guazutí and stags also live here. Keep an eye out for agurá, which are wild dogs. Reptiles are also common, including crocodiles, teja lizards, and various snakes. The park provides a safe home for all these amazing creatures.
Ypoá as a Ramsar Site
Ypoá National Park is so important that it was recognized internationally. On June 7, 1995, it was listed as a "Wetland of International Importance." This special recognition came from the Ramsar Convention. The Ramsar Convention is an international agreement that helps protect wetlands around the world. Being a Ramsar site means Ypoá's wetlands are considered vital for global biodiversity and human well-being.
See also
In Spanish: Parque nacional Ypoá para niños
- List of national parks of Paraguay
