Sociality, foraging and habitat use by vicuña

Abstract

In this chapter, we review the information on three aspects of vicuña (Vicugna vicugna) behaviour and ecology (1) intra-specific relationships, (2) foraging behaviour and ecology and (3) habitat utilization. We will also compare some of the behaviour and ecology of the vicuña with that of other South American camelid species, the wild guanaco Lama guanicoe , and the domestic llama Llama glama and alpaca Lama pacos. We will emphasize the spatial dimension of the vicuñas behaviour and the implications for the management of vicuña in protected areas.