Vicuna: Vicugna vicugna

Abstract

The species is classified as Least Concern given its wide range of distribution, population size, the increasing trend, and its occurrence in several protected areas, agreeing with the last assessment in 2008. However, it is important to note that improved conservation programs and tighter control at local,national and international levels are necessary for the conservation of the species, given the degree of poaching with the troubling increase of this illicit activity during the last decade. The inadequate controlof this unlawful activity and prohibited commercialization of the Vicuña?s high-priced fibre in international markets are the main driving forces of concern. It is thus important to reinforce and promote political actions to control the current situation in order to avoid the risk of revisiting pastcircumstances that left the species near extinction during the 60s of the past century. National conservation and management plans of the species have been developed since the last assessment, but there exist uncertainties since their implementation have not always been accomplished. Approved liveshearingof Vicuñas is widespread throughout the Andes, most of which, but not all, are within the challenging framework of actual sustainable use. The needed approach requires greater commitment by local communities and the authorities in charge to protect the species and its habitat, together with stricter control of the commercialization process. In addition, the disease mange caused by the miteSarcoptes scabiei is increasing at an alarming rate in several populations of Perú, Bolivia, Argentina and Chile; the identified causes include the presence of domestic animals with poor sanitary controls and other infected Vicuñas due to poor management practices. Concern about this situation has compelledthe authorities to initiate "research programs? especially in populations whose survival are at risk. The impact of climate change on the already extremely arid, high-altitude Vicuña habitats is a real concern, especially in conjunction with the deterioration of grasslands due to overgrazing by domestic livestock.In addition, a risk that should not be neglected is the hybridization of Vicuñas with alpacas, a backdoor illegal way of exporting Vicuña genes. Finally, the impact of expanding mining activities in the high Andes requires scientific monitoring to ensure the species is not negatively affected.