A vicuna at Highland Wildlife Park has received some special dental care to help keep him healthy and comfortable.
Lino, a member of the South American herd at the park, was treated by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) vet team after his lower incisors began growing in the wrong direction.
“Normally, a vicuna’s lower incisors grow continuously but are naturally worn down by grazing,” explained RZSS vet surgeon Rebecca Amos.
“Lino has an unusual growth pattern, which means his teeth don’t grind down as they should.”
Without treatment, the condition could have affected Lino’s ability to eat and his overall wellbeing.
The vet team gently filed down the problem tooth, and Lino recovered quickly from the short procedure.
“He was back with the herd after about an hour and doing really well,” said Rebecca Amos.
“We’re really pleased with how it went.”
Regular dental checks will now be part of Lino’s ongoing care plan.
Vicunas are close relatives of alpacas and llamas, and are native to the Andes.
Their soft wool is among the most prized natural fibres in the world, though at Highland Wildlife Park, they’re simply appreciated for their gentle presence.
Visitors can see Lino and the rest of the vicuna herd at the park, located near Kingussie, with discounted tickets available online.
