The Chungungo, the most tender animal in Chile

The chungungo (Lontra felina), also known as sea otter or chinchimén, has been crowned the new ambassador of Chilean fauna, and no wonder.

This small carnivorous mammal, considered one of the most tender mammals in Chile, conquers hearts with its fluffy fur, big eyes, and playful behavior. In addition, its choice highlights the importance of protecting the coastal biodiversity of our country, as it is one of the most endangered species of extinction.

Photos: @turismos_orca

Chungungo characteristics

The chungungo is the smallest member of the otters, reaching up to 90 cm in length (including its tail) and an average weight of 3 to 5 kg. Its fur is thick and dark brown, protecting it from the water’s cold. It is an expert swimmer with webbed feet and a streamlined body designed to explore coasts and coves in search of its favorite food: fish of different families, mollusks, crustaceans, and sometimes birds and small mammals.

This solitary and territorial animal usually lives in natural shelters such as caves or rock crevices. Unlike other otters, it rarely ventures offshore, preferring to stay close to the coast.

Where can Chungungo be seen?

The chungungo inhabits the Pacific coast exclusively, from Perú to the Magallanes region in Chile. Its best sightings occur in protected areas such as:

• Pan de Azúcar National Park (Atacama Region): Its coves and rocks are ideal to observe this tiny swimmer.
• Chiloé Island: It is commonly seen in coastal areas such as Cucao or Quellón.
• Fjords of Patagonia: From Aysén to Magallanes, the chungungo finds refuge in the calm channels and fjords.

Photos: @lagartija_sin_cola

Care and threats of the Chungungo

The chungungo faces multiple threats that have reduced its population, so it is classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

• Coastal pollution: Plastic and chemical waste affect their habitat and food source.
• Poaching: In the 20^th century, intensive hunting was done for the fur industry.
• Intensive fishing: Reduces food availability and can lead to bycatching.
• Construction of roads and works near marine ecosystems.
• Animals such as dogs and cats attack the populations (adults and young) when they are on the rocks.
• The destruction of this species’ habitat directly impacts their diet, affecting the kelp forests. The extraction of huiros and seaweed leaves the crustaceans, fish, and mollusks that depend on this vegetation to survive unprotected, depriving the chungungo of one of its primary food sources.

To protect it, it is essential to respect its environment: avoid littering on beaches, promote responsible tourism, and support conservation initiatives.

Photos: @felipe.wildphotography

Chungungo: New Chilean wildlife ambassador for the year 2025

With more than 2,000 votes, and thanks to an initiative promoted by the Jane Goodall Institute Chile Foundation and the Museo Interactivo Mirador (MIM), the chungungo was chosen as an ambassador of Chilean Wildlife Day 2025 because it represents the richness and fragility of marine fauna. His election seeks to raise public awareness of the need to protect our coastal ecosystems and conserve the unique species that depend on them. This small symbol of resilience and natural beauty reminds us of the importance of preserving our biological heritage for future generations.

Do you dare to discover the chungungo and join in its protection? If you visit their habitats, do it with respect and affection, leaving only footprints and taking away unforgettable memories.