The vicugna has sometimes been called the Chilian sheep, from the name of the country it inhabits. It is covered with a fine, valuable wool, which is of a red rose color on the back, but white on the other parts of the body. Vicugnas congregate in large herds, and feed on grass and small shrubs, and so long as they can procure enough of such food, they are never known to drink. They are very timid, but swift and sure at running. Their legs are slender and well formed, and the head tall and erect. Their ears are long and pointed, and their eyes large and brilliant. From the form of their feet, they are well fitted to travel mountainous countries, and are said to be even safer than mules. The vicugna is upwards of five feet in height and six in length. The tame ones will carry a load of over fifty pounds, but they are kept principally for the sake of the wool, and the flesh, which is said to taste like mutton. Here is a picture of the llama, which is like the vicugna in many respects.

vicugna

WOLF.