Huemul  (Hippocamelus bisulcus)

Huemul were previously hunted by Native American Indians, but rarely and mainly for their skins, as they are much smaller and less abundant than the guanaco (Lama guanicoe), the only other native ungulate in the region (2) (3). Poaching is still a major threat to this species even though hunting is now illegal. Other threats include predation by pumas, foxes and domestic dogs, habitat destruction, fires and livestock ranching. Locally, over-grazing, construction, and recreational activities may prove detrimental to the huemul (2) (3). In addition, large areas of forest have been harvested and replaced by agriculture and exotic tree forestry operations (2), resulting in huemul populations becoming isolated and therefore more vulnerable to local extinction (6).

An estimated 1000 to 2000 individuals survive today (2006) and this number is thought to be declining (3) (7). Several projects are in progress, surveying the range and population of the huemul. Two large non-governmental organisations in Argentina and Chile are working together to survey the border areas that are home to this species; however, this is difficult due to the rugged terrain of the region (2).

The huemul has been protected in Chile since 1929 and has since been adopted as the national symbol (2). It is found in several national parks, but poaching still occurs within these areas and public education is necessary to improve the chances of survival of the huemul (8). There have been many attempts to keep and breed this species in captivity, but this is also proving difficult and has been hampered by poaching (3).