Park rangers from the Villavicencio Private Nature Reserve in Mendoza, detained guanaco poachers within the protected area.
Four men were caught in the act of disemboweling one of the animals. Additionally, they threatened the officers with firearms and initially fled on a motorcycle.
Authorities intensified the search with a large operation involving the Rural Police, security forces, and the Department of Wildlife to capture them.
Guanaco poachers detained: the operation
The search operation included an extensive sweep and the establishment of fixed posts in the area.
Ignacio Haudet, Director of Biodiversity and Ecopark, highlighted the work of the Villavicencio staff in the area, both in monitoring and overseeing wildlife. “Their constant presence in the area is crucial for the protection of local ecosystems,” he stated.
The provincial Department of Wildlife pointed out that poaching not only endangers wildlife but also poses a public health risk.
“The meat obtained by poachers does not undergo any health controls, which could endanger the health of those who consume it,” stated Adrián Gorrindo, head of the department.
Gorrindo also called for public awareness about the importance of protecting wild species.
The importance of protecting native fauna
“The guanaco is a fundamental part of the puma’s diet, the main natural predator in our province,” he said.
“By affecting their populations, we also affect the pumas, which could lead them to attack domestic livestock, impacting human activities in the region,” he explained.
In this context, the provincial Ministry of Energy and Environment reiterated the importance of reporting these illegal practices to prevent damage to the ecosystem and public health.
It also specified that the fine for hunting a guanaco in Mendoza can reach up to $7 million per specimen, depending on the severity of the offense.
How to make reports
Reports can be made through the official website or via email to [email protected].
There are also phone lines available: 261 5182481 (Biodiversity and Ecopark Directorate), 261 7023239/261 7024006 (Department of Wildlife), from Monday to Friday, from 8 am to 1 pm, or by calling 911 (Mendoza Rural Security Police).
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