Humedal del Río Lluta

The 31-hectare (76-acre) Humedal del Río Lluta in northernmost Chile is a Municipal Natural Reserve as well as a federal Natural Sanctuary. Located in one of the most arid regions of the country, this wetland is an important resource to 130 bird species. The Technological University of Chile nominated the wetland as a Site of Regional Importance, with the support of the mayor of the Municipality of Arica. The site hosts more than 20,000 shorebirds, including 1.4% of the Sanderling (Calidris alba) and 1.8% of the Whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus) populations wintering in the area. The site also hosts two South American endemic shorebird species: Peruvian Thick-knee (Burhinus superciliaris) and White-backed Stilt (Himantopus melanurus).