vicuñas

Vicuñas are small wild camelids of the high Andes of South America. They occur in parts of Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina, typically above 3,000 meters in open grasslands and shrublands where they form social groups. They are closely related to guanacos and llamas, but remain wild species not domesticated.

Physical characteristics: adults stand about 0.9 to 1.0 meters at the shoulder and weigh 45 to 60 kilograms. They have a two-layer coat: a fine, dense undercoat and a coarse outer layer. The fiber is extremely fine, with a diameter around 12 to 16 microns, and is highly valued for luxury textiles.

Behavior and reproduction: vicuñas live in groups led by a dominant male; during the breeding season, males defend territories with displays and chases. Females give birth to a single cria after a gestation of about 11 months; youngsters are weaned after several months and reach sexual maturity around 2 to 3 years.

Conservation and use: vicuña wool has driven intense historical hunting, but protection and regulated harvesting programs have reduced poaching. International trade is controlled under CITES, and many range countries maintain community-based management programs that permit periodic sustainable shearing rather than slaughter. The IUCN Red List lists the vicuña as Vulnerable, with populations recovering in some areas due to conservation and sustainable use initiatives.