Llamas are members of the camelid family. They are native to the South American Andes but originated in North America about 40 million years ago. About 3 million years ago they migrated, those going west became today's camels and those heading south became modern llamas, alpacas, guanacos and vicunas. Unfortunately they became extinct here about 12,000 years ago. They have been domesticated for 4,000-5,000 years making them some of the longest domesticated animals.
Llamas weigh 18-33 pounds at birth and grow to 250-500 pounds by four years of age. They live 20-25 years, and come in a wide range of colors and various wool types.
Llamas can have babies (crias) at any time of the year since they don't have a heat cycle but are induced ovulators. Gestation is approximately 350 days and they are bred back within a couple of weeks with the first breeding occurring at about 18 months of age, though many are now waiting up to three years of age.
Llamas are easily transported since they lie down in transit. They have even traveled in the back of station wagons and mini-vans are no problem at all.
Llamas don't require large expanses, but should have enough room to romp, an enjoyable sight for the owners.
Llamas are clean, quiet animals; their most common vocalization is humming. They have individual personalities more like that of a cat than any other domestic animal.
Llamas are intelligent creatures and require only a handful of repetitions to learn a new behavior.
Obviously llamas are elegant, charming and lovable, with calm dispositions but a common question is "but what do you use them for?" You may be aware of some of their uses but not others. In addition to breeding, llamas are used for protecting sheep from coyotes, and although they are physically no match for a bear, bears seem to be hesitant to approach a llama. Their gentle nature and calming effect make them frequent visitors to nursing homes, hospitals and schools. Llamas are excellent pack animals, doing very little damage with their soft toes, communal toilet habits, and efficient digestion. There are saddles and packs made just for them. Llama wool sells for about $30 pound and can be obtained by either brushing or shearing. Llamas can also be trained to pull a cart or carry a child. They make excellent jogging companions; and of course, llamas are unique pets.
The preferred food of llamas is grass, but they will also eat weeds, tree limbs and shrubs. In a dry lot situation, llamas eat 3-5 pounds of hay daily. Due to their extremely efficient digestive system top quality alfalfa is not needed, and is in fact, too rich. Llamas should have access to a regular supply of clean water. Salt and minerals round out the diet of most llamas and grain is only fed to those pregnant, lactating or carrying heavy loads.
A dogproof 5 foot fence is sufficient containment for llamas and in moderate climates a shade and rain cover is sufficient; in more extreme areas the shelter should be enclosed on three sides. In warmer climates extra measures must be taken to keep llamas cool.
Llamas are social, herd animals and although one can be kept with other animals they really prefer and should have the companionship of their own kind.
Llamas have few disease problems but as with any animals should receive basic health maintenance including routine livestock inoculations and protection from parasites.
Llamas do not bite and in fact like other ruminants have only lower teeth in front. Yes, llamas do at times spit but this is normally reserved for herd interaction and defense. Humans are normally only the target when the llama is frightened or has been mistreated. Unfortunately llamas don't always aim and don't check to see who may be in the line of fire.
Most people believe llamas are only available to those with large pocketbooks, but in reality pet quality males begin at about $400 and breeding females at about $1000.
Their efficient digestion means they cost less to feed than many dogs.
Check the llamas for sale at the hill Find out about their wool and acquire some for your next project New llama buyer tips
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