Llama

Looks how to spot one

Woolly fibre coat

Llamas have a thick, woolly coat that can be short to medium length (ccara type) or longer and woollier (tampuli type). The fibre grows in a range of solid and multicolour or 'paint' patterns.4

Personality what they are like

Llamas are generally quiet, intelligent and docile animals that can be halter trained and taught to walk on a lead. They are herd animals and can become stressed if isolated. They can kick, bite or spit when frightened or in pain, and males may fight in the presence of females.61

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Llamas need daily grazing or browsing and space to exercise. They can be used for trekking and carrying light loads (up to 20 kg). They require a pasture or enclosure where they can move freely.25

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Llamas need regular foot trims and can be sheared annually for fibre. Their enclosure should have manure removed regularly and mud and urine build-up treated to prevent parasites. They need access to shelter from heat, cold and rain.65

Home where they are happiest

Llamas need a secure enclosure with fencing at least 48 to 60 inches high, using woven wire or electric high-tensile fencing (barbed wire is not recommended). They require natural or manmade shelter with good ventilation. They are adaptable to different climates but need protection from extreme heat and cold. Approximately three to five llamas can be grazed per acre on good pasture.5

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Llamas are grazers and browsers. Their main diet is grass hay (10-14% crude protein) and pasture. They generally thrive with minimal or no grain, though pregnant or lactating females may need supplementation. Legumes like alfalfa are usually not needed and can cause obesity. Fresh water must always be available.65

Company who they like around

Llamas are herd animals and must never be kept alone. They can be housed with other llamas, alpacas, sheep, goats or horses. Ill animals should still have visual contact with herdmates to reduce stress. Aggressive males may need separate enclosure but should remain within sight of other animals. In some countries, llamas are kept as pets and guard animals; they are not venomous or protected, but owners should check local regulations.65

The story where it all began

Llamas were domesticated from the wild guanaco in the Andean Highlands of South America around 5,000 to 6,000 years ago. They were used by indigenous peoples as pack animals, for fibre, meat and in religious ceremonies. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, llamas were imported to the United States by wealthy individuals such as William Randolph Hearst. Today they are kept worldwide as pets, fibre producers, guard animals for sheep and goats, and for trekking and animal-assisted activities.257

Recognised by the official bits

British Llama Society

Represents 2,000 to 4,000 llamas kept mostly as pets in the UK4