vicuña

Vicuña (Vicugna vicugna) is a wild South American camelid native to the high-altitude regions of the Andes, primarily found in countries such as Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. It is closely related to the llama and alpaca but is distinguished by its smaller size and finer fleece. Vicuñas are considered one of the most prized fiber-producing animals in the world due to their exceptionally soft and warm wool, which is lighter and finer than cashmere.

The vicuña has a slender body, long neck, and thin legs, adapted to survive in harsh mountainous environments at elevations of 3,500 to 4,800 meters. Its coat varies in color from light brown to reddish-brown, with a white underside, and becomes denser during winter months. Vicuñas are generally shy and live in social groups led by a dominant male. They feed mainly on grasses and shrubs available in their arid, high-altitude habitats.

Historically, vicuña populations declined significantly due to overhunting and habitat loss, driven by the demand for their valuable wool and the expansion of agriculture. However, conservation efforts initiated in the late 20th century, including protected areas and sustainable harvesting practices, have helped their numbers recover. Vicuñas are now protected by national laws and international agreements, and their wool is shorn once a year under carefully regulated conditions to ensure animal welfare.

The wool obtained from vicuñas is prized in the textile industry for its fine diameter, softness, and insulating properties. Due to their fragile populations, vicuña wool fetches high market value, making sustainable management critical to their continued survival. The species remains a symbol of cultural heritage and environmental conservation in the Andes.