This work will provide novel insights on (1) the demography and spatial ecology of the vicuña, a species of conservation concern; (2) environmental factors that affect vicuña demography and movement, such as food availability, and; (3) the degree to which populations of Andean condors depend on the predator-prey interaction between pumas and vicuñas. This comprehensive, population- and community-level approach will shed light on the ecological interdependencies among 3 highly charismatic species that inhabit the high altitude deserts of the South American Andes. This work will be conducted in collaboration with the federal and state agencies in charge of managing SGNP and the surrounding provincial reserve, a process designed to strengthen their management capacity and guide their conservation strategies. I expect this collaboration will provide a model for broader efforts directed to conserve the sensitive wildlife and vast, arid landscapes that characterize the southern cone of South America.

From a conservation perspective, I aim to increase public awareness and inspire protection of this outstanding Andean landscape. SGNP is likely one of the last conservation strongholds where semiarid landscapes of southern South America are conserved in a highly pristine state. However, current trends in land use in the surrounding areas (including a provincial reserve) of SGNP include a sharp increase in mining operations, particularly open-pit gold mines. This will be accomplished locally by presenting public talks and locally, regionally and internationally by telling the story of San Guillermo through world-class film and photojournalism including a 20-minute documentary to be shown at arranged community events, park headquarters, online via multiple outlets, and international film festivals. Ultimately, I aim to generate new support for the conservation of these reserves by highlighting their importance as long-term ecological assets and objects of cultural pride.