Baby Vicuna Born in Ohio Zoo

A baby vicuna was born at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium on Feb. 11. The zoo has not yet released the gender of the baby vicuna, which is part of the camel family.

The species is native to high elevations in the Andes Mountains of South America. Vicunas are known for their soft, wool-like coats which range in color from light brown to dark reddish-brown.

The Columbus Zoo's baby vicuna joins a small number of zoos in the United States that have this species. It will be several years before the baby is able to be on public exhibit.

The zoo asks that visitors do not approach or touch the animal as they are still considered very shy and may run away.

In Peru, vicunas are considered an important resource for their wool, meat and hide. They are also known for their valuable milk, which is sometimes used to make cheese.

Vicuna Wool Goes on Sale to Benefit Charity

The finest vicuna wool goes on sale next week with all profits going to benefit the charity of your choice.

You may have never heard of vicuna wool, but it is one of the most prized and expensive natural fibers in the world. Vicuna are a type of llama that live in the high Andes Mountains, and their wool is so fine that just one ounce can cost hundreds of dollars.

But this week, you can buy items made from vicuna wool at a discount, and all the profits will go to charity. There are hats, scarves, sweaters, and more available in a variety of colors and styles. So if you've been wanting to buy something special for yourself or as a gift, now is your chance!

The sale starts on Monday, September 10th and runs through Sunday, September 16th. You can choose from any of the following charities:

• Make A Wish Foundation
• American Cancer Society * Autism Speaks * Alzheimer's Association

Vicuna Found Wandering in Oregon Park

It was a beautiful day in the park, and everyone was out enjoying the sun and fresh air. That is until a small, brown-and-white vicuna was spotted by a group of people walking their dogs.

The vicuna, which is native to South America, looked like it was lost and confused as it wandered around the park. Some people attempted to coax the animal back home, but it just kept wandering around.

In the end, the vicuna was captured by animal control and taken to a local shelter. It's unclear how the animal ended up in Oregon or how long it had been there before being spotted.

Vicuna Cubs Born at Zoo in Washington

A zoo in Washington, D.C. is celebrating the arrival of a new vicuna cub.

The Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute says the as-yet unnamed little guy was born on May 8 to mom, Shanthi, and dad, Diego.

Vicunas are members of the camel family and are considered a near threatened species due to poaching for their fur. There are estimated to be only about 26,000 left in the wild.

At the zoo, visitors can see Shanthi and her new cub on exhibit in the McConnachie Family Brown Bear Habitat.