Vicugna pacos, commonly known as the alpaca, is native to the Andean regions of South America. It thrives in high-altitude grasslands and is renowned for its soft, luxurious fleece. Alpacas are social animals, typically living in herds, and are known for their gentle and curious nature.

Vicugna pacos, commonly known as the alpaca, is native to the Andean highlands of South America. The species is primarily found in Peru, where it originated, but also inhabits regions of Bolivia, Ecuador, Chile, and Argentina.

Alpacas typically inhabit high-altitude environments in the Andes, ranging from 3,500 to 5,000 meters above sea level. These regions are characterized by cold temperatures with significant diurnal variation, low oxygen levels, and relatively dry conditions with seasonal rainfall.

Alpacas are well adapted to the alpine and puna grassland ecosystems of the Andes, where they graze on native grasses and other vegetation. They have specialized adaptations for coping with the high-altitude conditions, such as a dense fleece for insulation against cold temperatures and a unique hemoglobin structure for efficient oxygen utilization.