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Llama History
Llamas belong to the camelid family, which means they are related to alpacas
and camels. They come from the
mountains of South America, and have been domesticated for over 5,000 years.
Llamas were used by the Andean natives as beast of burden, and were
also used as a source of wool, meat, and shelter provided by their hides.
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Physical Facts
| Life Span |
about 15 to 29 years |
| Weight |
200 to 450 pounds |
| Height |
5' to 6'5" at head, and 36" to
47" at shoulder |
| Breeding Age |
15 to 18 months of age (Greater
than 200 pounds) |
| Gestation |
11 and 1/2 months (335 to 355 days) |
| Temperature |
100 -102 degrees F |
| Pulse Rate |
60 - 90 beats per minute |
| Respiratory Rate |
10 - 30 breathes per minute |
| Color |
There are a ride range of colors from white
to black, red to brown, and any color combination. They may also be
either solid or spotted in color. |
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| What are Llamas used for?
Llamas are considered domestic livestock, and as so, can be used
in many ways that other livestock are used. However, llamas are more
versatile than normal livestock. Because of their intelligence, they can
be very easily trained and can adapt easily to new situations. They are
also more resistant to outside invaders, like worms and diseases. They can be
used as companion and show animals, and for packing, fiber production, and
as guard animals to goat, and sheep herds. They can also be trained to pull
carts and wagons. Llamas are good "PR" animals, and are useful
as therapy animals to the elderly. Their gentleness also allows them to be
good for 4-H groups projects and other youth activities as well.
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| What do they eat? Llamas are ruminants like
cows. However, they only have a three compartment stomach unlike cows that
have a four compartment stomach. Being a ruminant means that they will chew
cud in order to completely digest their food. They eat grass, hay, and
grain. Supplements of vitamins, minerals, and salts that are not available
through their forage should also be provided to maintain a well balanced
diet. Along with feeds, fresh clean water should be available at all times
to prevent dehydration, especially in the hotter climates. A couple of
teaspoons of bleach can be added to the drinking water to prevent the growth of algae
and to keep it clean. Small doses of bleach will not hurt animals and they
will appreciate the clear fresh water. If dehydration is an issue,
electrolytes can be supplemented either through a paste or as free choice
beside their drinking water.
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