Animals
Class: Mammal
Biome:
Conservation Status: Near Threatened
About this animal
The guanaco is native to the arid, mountainous regions of South America that stands between 107 and 122 centimeters (3.5 and 4 feet) at the shoulder and weighs about 90 kg (200 lb). This is a wild camel from which both the llama and alpaca were domesticated. Guanacos are usually found in small herds or loosely structured family groups. The male leads a group of between 10-12 females and their young, which are called “guanaquitos”. When a member of the herd picks up the slightest hint of danger, it makes a high-pitched warning call, causing the other guanacos to flee swiftly and nimbly across the steep and uneven terrain. Guanacos generally live at high elevations, grazing on grasses and browsing on leaves and buds. They can get by without water for long periods of time, obtaining moisture from the plants they eat. Female guanacos usually give birth to a single offspring after a pregnancy of more than 11 months.
Did you know?
The guanaco is one of the largest wild mammals in South America, and the puma is its only significant natural predator.
