Llama Facts

Here are some of the most common questions asked about Llamas.

What are they used for?

Uses include breeding stock, pack animals, driving animals, wool production, therapy, pets and companions to young and old alike.

Are they intelligent?

Llamas are intelligent and easy to train. In just a few repetitions, they will pick up and retain many behaviors such as accepting halter, being led, loading in and out of a vehicle, pulling a cart or carrying a pack. They are highly intuitive, which is one reason why they interact so well with people that are impaired. Their intuitiveness seems to lower the stress level in others. Their unique intelligence is what attracts humans. They are not subservient as a dog would be, but are capable of linking a relationship between llama and human that enriches our lives. Llamas tend to bring out the best in children, helping them to understand about patience and tolerance and responsibility. Those of us owning llamas for the right reasons have enriched our lives by their mere presence.

Can you use their fibre?

Llama fibre is lanolin-free, lightweight, warm and luxurious, also very popular with spinners. It has a greater thermal warmth than sheep wool because the fibre is hollow. Many people allergic to wool are not allergic to llama fibre.

Are they good pack animals?

Llamas are excellent packers. They can carry 50-120 pounds, but are not ridden except by children. Their two-toed foot with its leathery bottom pad gives great sure-footedness. This foot, and the llama's ability to browse, give the llama an impact on the environment equivalent to that of a large deer. With this in mind, they are highly regarded by the US Forest Service.

What and how much do they eat?

Llamas are modified ruminants with a three-compartment stomach. They chew their cud like cattle and sheep. Because of a relatively low protein requirement (about 12%), due to their efficient digestive system, they can be kept on a variety of pastures or hay. They also eat grain and usually require a free-choice vitamin/mineral mix. They are grazers like sheep and browsers like deer.

What is their personality like?

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.

What sounds do they make?

Llamas communicate with a series of ear, body and tail postures, as well as a shrill alarm call and a gentle humming sound.

Do they spit?

Spitting is the llamas way of saying "BUG OFF!" Spitting is normally used only among llamas to divert annoying suitors, ward off a perceived threat or, most commonly, to establish a pecking order at mealtime. An occasional llama who has been forced to tolerate excessive human handling may have developed an intolerance for or fear of humans, will spit if it feels threatened by them.

Miscellaneous Information

Llamas are compatible with most agricultural operations and require little space. They are clean, gentle, intelligent, attractive and quiet.