Jujuy authorities investigate illegal vicuña poaching network

Authorities in Jujuy, Argentina, have launched an investigation into a poaching network responsible for the deaths of approximately 350 vicuñas so far in 2026. The illegal activity involves the extraction and commercialization of the protected species' fiber.

Environmental prosecutors, in coordination with the National Gendarmerie, Federal Police, and local indigenous communities, have conducted inspections in the Puna region to identify slaughter sites and potential sales channels via social media and local markets. In the Ciénaga de Paicone area, community leaders reported a drastic decline in the wild population, noting that the herd has plummeted from roughly 2,000 animals last year to between 300 and 400 currently.

Investigators are working to establish the organizational structure of the poaching ring and the subsequent distribution circuit. The operation involves multiple stakeholders, including representatives from the Association of Vicuña Breeders and technical personnel from INTA Miraflores.