About
The vicuña is a small camelid living on the Andean high plateau (Altiplano), adapted to cold, dry conditions at altitudes of 3,000–5,000 m. It feeds mainly on herbaceous plants and also eats shrubs; because it needs to drink, the presence of water sources influences its distribution. Vicuñas are typically sedentary in single-male, multi-female groups of about five individuals and maintain territories that the group male defends against intruders. Gestation lasts about 11 months, with a single young born in summer; offspring are weaned at about eight months. Populations have recovered through protection and the species is classified as Least Concern, but threats remain from poaching, competition and hybridization with domestic livestock.
