Wealth of the Wild: How Indigenous Animals Have Brought Many Cultures to Prosperity

Various cultures throughout the world still hold on to ancient traditions, practices and artistry as a way to bring prosperity to their people and their community. Those ancient techniques and materials are considered sacred, not only because of the history and the fact that these artistic practices have been passed down for tens of thousands of years, but also because of the wealth that these traditions have brought to those cultures, especially throughout South America.

You might not realize but chances are, many of the gorgeous fabrics in your home and your closet are the product of ancient artistic traditions using fabric from indigenous animals in South America. That heavenly throw blanket you’re snuggling? Alpacas from Peru. That deliciously soft and delicate sweater you adore on a cool day? Llamas from Bolivia. From blankets to upholstery to sweaters, ponchos, tapestries, shoes and more, indigenous animals have brought many cultures to prosperity over the years, and continue to do so, both giving back to their communities and giving consumers handcrafted, luxurious fabrics and goods that cannot be manufactured anywhere else.  

3Llamas are Valuable in Bolivia

Bolivian Llamas Belatina

Similar to the popularity and purpose of alpacas in Peru (and other areas of South America), another type of camelid is equally valuable in Bolivia — the llama. Bolivia boasts the largest population of llamas in the world, with over 2 million llamas. In Bolivia, llama fiber is a go-to source material for clothing brands such as Bonalla, a brand that is all about bringing traditional Bolivian craftsmanship to a more modern consumer base.

The brand’s name comes from its mission: Bolivian Natural Llama (BO-NA-LLA), and the goal is to create luxurious, contemporary knitwear for a cosmopolitan audience. What sets this brand apart starts at the core, with authentic, naturally sourced, high-quality Bolivian llama fibers that are pure, eco-friendly and sustainable. According to their brand website, Bonilla sources Bolivian llama fiber from the most experienced llama yarn manufacturer in the world and uses that fiber to create the highest quality products, from sweaters to scarves to accessories and more.