The southernmost states of Brazil, Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina marks the beginning of the South American Pampas. An area of lowland vegetation dominated of a treeless grassy prairie in which numerous species of birds are specialized too. During the winter large numbers of shorebirds and waterfowl from North America concentrate along the coasts. The culture of the pampas is dominated by farming. The gauchos are a national symbol in Argentina and Uruguay but is also a strong culture in the far south region of Brazil. The skilled farmers became greatly admired and renowned in legends, folklore and literature and an important part of the regional cultural tradition. The strong connection with the nature is embedded in the culture and has contributed to an interest in the wildlife even if these habitats also remain threatened by other forces.
