The history of Uruguayan mammalogy is documented in summary form, from its almost anecdotal antecedents at the beginning of the conquest to the present day. The number of recognized mammalian species has increased almost linearly from the 1970s to the present. In 1972, 82 species were recorded, and by 2020, there were more than 120. Thus, more than 30% of the country’s mammalian richness was discovered in the most recent decades at an average rate of almost one species per year. Based on this trend, the documentation of new mammalian species for Uruguay in the near future is to be expected. On the other hand, with the exception of a few species, such as the Pampas deer (Ozotoceros bezoarticus), some tuco-tucos (Ctenomys), and sea lions (Otariidae), little is known about the ecology, evolution, or natural history of Uruguayan mammals. Currently, postgraduate studies in zoology and related areas are widespread in the country, and some students have chosen mammals as a subject of study. Working groups have been generated at different institutions, and there have been some opportunities that could enhance the study of certain groups. The challenges for the coming years are identified as the academic strengthening of existing institutions and groups dedicated to this discipline, the consequent professional insertion of postgraduates in the subject and their effective relationship with official institutions in charge of scientific research, biological conservation, and health and production issues.