The overcrowding of guanacos in Patagonia is reaching critical levels and threatens to destroy livestock production in the region. Rural entities from Chubut, Santa Cruz, Río Negro, Neuquén, and Tierra del Fuego, along with the Argentine Rural Confederations (CRA), have requested measures to halt the advance of this native species that endangers the productive and ecological foundation of Patagonian lands.
Concerns about the overpopulation of guanacos are supported by recent research from the EEA Santa Cruz, which highlights the importance of implementing a comprehensive management policy for this species. Biologist Stuart "Chacho" Blake emphasized the urgency of regulating guanaco density in the region and pointed out that the repeal of the national guanaco management plan should lead to stricter local regulations.
According to a study conducted by agronomist Carla Cepeda from EEA Santa Cruz, the excessive presence of guanacos can lead to a reduction in the diversity and quality of Patagonian grasslands. By comparing fenced areas without guanaco access to other areas where these animals grazed, it was found that the protected plots had greater vegetation cover. The pressure from guanacos on the grasslands can contribute to soil degradation and exacerbate desertification, affecting not only sheep producers but also the stability of local ecosystems.
The rapid growth of the guanaco population, which exceeds one million specimens in Chubut, has had a negative impact on the sheep sector. In the last two decades, the sheep stock has decreased by 32%, posing a serious challenge for producers. The uncontrolled expansion of guanacos, which compete directly for vital resources such as pastures and water with sheep, has facilitated the predation of flocks by foxes and pumas, worsening the situation for producers.
Rural federations emphasize that sheep production is one of the few viable activities in the region and highlight the importance of sustainable management of fauna to ensure its continuity. In the absence of action from authorities, both the rural sector and the scientific community warn of the devastating consequences that the lack of population control and comprehensive management of guanacos in Patagonia could have.
