Environmental issues in Chile Environmental issues in Chile This page covers environmental issues in Chile. The country of Chile is a virtual continental island bounded by the Pacific Ocean on the west, the Andes Mountains on the east, and the Atacama Desert in the north; it is home to several important ecoregions, such as the Chilean Winter Rainfall-Valdivian Forests, a biodiversity hotspot that harbors richly endemic flora and fauna, and the Tropical Andes, which stretches into northern Chile. There are endangered species in Chile, including the South Andean huemul, tundra peregrine falcon, puna rhea, Chilean woodstar, ruddy-headed goose, and green sea turtle. As of
Sport in Chile union is one of the fastest growing sports in Chile, especially in the universities. The Chile national rugby union team (""The Condors"") has so far never qualified for a Rugby World Cup, but is ranked 24th in the IRB world rankings, making Chile the third best team in Latin America, after Argentina and Uruguay. Currently, there are 14 rugby associations distributed throughout the country (between Arica and Magallanes), plus a referees association. The most recognized Rugby teams in Chile are Club Deportivo Universidad Católica, Old Boys and Stade Francaise, in Santiago; Old Mackayans and Sporting, in Viña del Mar; and