Response of guanacosLama guanicoeto changes in land management in Península Valdés, Argentine Patagonia: conservation implications

Guanacos (Lama guanicoe) in Península Valdés, Argentina, showed a three-fold increase in abundance within three years following the removal of sheep from a private wildlife reserve. This rapid response suggests that guanacos, even at high densities, are less damaging to vegetation than sheep. The study compared guanaco populations and plant cover inside and outside the reserve, revealing higher guanaco numbers and greater grassland coverage in areas where sheep were excluded. While management changes led to significant local increases in guanaco populations, the researchers emphasize that large-scale protection is necessary for the long-term persistence of wild guanaco populations. The findings highlight the potential for sustainable coexistence between livestock production and wildlife conservation in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Burgi, M. V., Marino, A., Rodríguez, M. V., Pazos, G., & Baldi, R. (2011). Response of guanacosLama guanicoeto changes in land management in Península Valdés, Argentine Patagonia: conservation implications. Oryx, 46(1), 99–105. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0030605311000214