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Vicugna vicugna

The vicuña is a wild South American camelid and the smallest living member of the camel family.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The vicuña (Vicugna vicugna) is a wild South American camelid and the smallest living member of the camel family. It lives in the high Andes and is known for its exceptionally fine fleece, which has long been valued for textiles. The species is currently listed as Least Concern globally, although it remains managed and protected in parts of its range.

Taxonomy and classification

The vicuña is classified under the genus Vicugna within the family Camelidae. It is one of two species in this genus, the other being the alpaca.

Description

The vicuña is the smallest living camelid, with a slender build adapted to high-altitude environments. It has a long neck and long legs, and its coat is exceptionally fine and soft.

Distribution and habitat

Vicuñas inhabit the high Andean regions of South America, including Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. They are found in high mountain grasslands and semi-arid uplands. Introduced populations also exist in Ecuador.

Conservation and use

Historically, vicuñas were heavily hunted for their fine wool, leading to population declines. Conservation and management efforts have allowed numbers to recover. The species is now listed as Least Concern, but it remains protected in some areas. Its fleece continues to be highly prized for luxury textiles.

Relationship with humans

The vicuña holds cultural and economic significance in Andean societies. Traditional practices involved protecting and using its fibre. Peru recognizes the vicuña as a national symbol.

Key facts

  • The vicuña is the smallest living camelid, native to the high Andes of South America.
  • Its fine fleece is highly valued for luxury textiles.
  • After historical overhunting, conservation measures have helped populations recover.
  • It is closely related to the alpaca and is considered its wild ancestor.
  • The species is listed as Least Concern globally.
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Canadian context

Vicuñas are of interest to Canadian readers mainly through zoology, conservation, and the luxury fibre trade; they may also appear in Canadian zoos and wildlife collections.

Frequently asked questions

What is a vicuña?
A vicuña is a wild South American camelid, scientifically named Vicugna vicugna, and the smallest living member of the camel family.
Where do vicuñas live?
They live in high-altitude Andean regions of South America, especially in Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina.
What do vicuñas eat?
They are grazing herbivores that feed mainly on grasses and other low vegetation in mountain habitats.
Are vicuñas endangered?
No, the species is listed as Least Concern globally, though it is still managed and protected in some countries.
Why is vicuña fibre valuable?
Vicuña fibre is extremely fine and soft, which makes it highly prized for luxury textiles.
Is the vicuña related to the alpaca?
Yes. It is closely related to the alpaca, and many sources describe the vicuña as the alpaca’s wild ancestor.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/vicuna
    Supports: Species identity as Vicugna vicugna; smallest member of Camelidae
  2. Animal Diversity Web — https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Vicugna_vicugna/
    Supports: Range, habitat, size, lifespan, and conservation status
  3. Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals — https://www.cms.int/species/vicugna-vicugna
    Supports: Taxonomy and IUCN status
  4. Wikipedia — https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vicugna_vicugna
    Supports: Subspecies and broad conservation/population context
  5. Simple English Wikipedia — https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vicu%C3%B1a
    Supports: Habitat and South American distribution
  6. Zoo Dresden — https://www.zoo-dresden.de/en/animal/vicugna/
    Supports: Habitat elevation, food, behaviour, and approximate size