Animal Information

 

 

Llama

Llama Guanicoe

 

 

 

Where am I from?

Llamas originated from the central plains of North America several thousand years ago. They migrated to South America and Asia. By the end of the last ice age, llamas became extinct in North America.  

 

Who are my relatives?

I am related guanaco, alpacas and camel.

 

How am I born?

Llamas mate with the female in a kush (lying down) position for an extended period of time (20–45 minutes), which is fairly unusual in a large animal. The gestation period of a llama is 11 ½ months (350 days). Llamas give birth standing. Dams (female llamas) do not lick off their babies, as they have an attached tongue which does not reach outside of the mouth more than half an inch, rather, they will nuzzle and hum to their newborns.  I am called a Cria when I am young.

 

How long does it take me to grow up and how long do I live?

I am up and standing, walking and attempting to nurse within the first hour after birth. We mature at 12 to 24 months and live an average of 25 years.  Full grown I will stand 5-6 feet.

 

What kind of family life do I have?

We are very social animals and like to live with other llamas in a herd.

 

What do I eat and when do I eat? 

I graze on grass and alfalfa or you can give me hay and grain.

 

Who are my predators?

In the wild, big cats are a danger to us, but we are guard animals and help keep away animals like coyotes and dogs from the sheep we are guarding.

 

When using a pack, llamas can carry about 25%–30% of their body weight for several miles.