Llamas are native to the Andes Mountains of South America and vicunas live in the high altiplano of the Andes. They are both camelids and are well adapted to living at high altitudes. They have a number of adaptations that help them to survive in this environment, including:
- A thick coat of wool that helps them to stay warm in the cold mountain air.
- Large lungs and hearts that allow them to breathe and circulate oxygen efficiently in the thin air.
- A special hemoglobin that helps them to absorb oxygen more efficiently from the air.
- Strong muscles that help them to carry heavy loads and navigate difficult terrain.