Llama

Llamas are members of the camelid family. Thousands of years ago, the camelids became extinct in North America, but they may still be found in South America.

Llamas were domesticated from guanacos in the Andean Highlands of Peru, and are among the oldest domestic animals in the world. Primarily a beast of burden, they also provide native herdsmen with meat, fiber for clothing, hides for shelter, and manure pellets for fuel. Because llamas and their ancestors are specially suited to the harsh environment of their Andean homeland, North American owners will find them hardy, healthy, easy to care for, and remarkably disease-free.

Llamas stand 40-45 inches at the shoulder, and 5'5"-6' at the head. They weigh 280-450 lb when mature, and live 15-25 years. The llama's hair ranges from white to black, with shades of beige, brown, red, and roan in between. It may be solid, spotted, or marked in a variety of patterns.

The uses of llamas include breeding stock, packing, driving, fiber production, therapy, and pets.

Llamas are intelligent and easy to train. In just a few repetitions they will pick up and retain many behaviors such as accepting a halter, being led, loading in and out of a vehicle, pulling a cart, or carrying a pack.

Grease-free, light-weight llama hair is warm, luxurious, and very popular with spinners, knitters, weavers and other craftspeople.

Many llamas are excellent packers, often carrying 25-30 percent of their body weight for 5-8 miles. They are only ridden by children. Their two-toed foot with its leathery bottom pad gives them great sure-footedness. This, and their ability to browse, make the llama's impact on the environment equivalent to that of a large deer.

Llamas are a modified ruminant with a three-compartment stomach. They chew their cud like cattle and sheep. Due to their low protein requirements and efficient digestive system, llamas are economical to keep. Veterinary advice should be sought regarding feed, vitamin, and mineral requirements for specific regions.

These highly social animals need the companionship of their species. Independent yet shy, llamas are gentle and curious. Their calm nature and common sense make them easy for anyone, even children, to handle.

Spitting is the llamas way of warding off a perceived threat, discourage annoying suitors, or more commonly, to establish pecking order at mealtime A llama who has been worked excessively may develop an intolerance for, or fear of, humans and will spit if it feels threatened.

Female llamas are bred at 18-24 months, and can be bred at any time. After 350 days, they give birth to a single 20-30 lb cria during daylight hours. Twins are rare. Crias are usually standing and walking within 90 minutes. They are weaned at about 6 months.