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Llamas Information
History
Llamas are small camelids with ancestors that originated in the the Prairies of North America about 40 million years ago, some migrated over the land bridge we now call the Bering Strait to Asia, where they developed into the llamas’ half cousins the camel and dromedary. Others migrated south to the Andes, where they evolved into the llamas who we know today. Three other species of small camelids – the alpaca, guanaco, and vicuna – evolved in their native South America and are cousins to the llama.
Llamas are adaptable to varying habitats, from sea level to 15,000 ft in elevation and thrive in cold temperatures and extreme weather.
It is claimed that Man tamed and befriended llamas 6500 years ago, making them the 2nd oldest domesticated animal after dogs. The llamas were integral to life in those remote places and still provide transport, clothes, food and heat.
The family of small camelids are generally known as Llamas contain 4 different species.
- The 2 domesticated species the Llama and the Alpaca, both of which have 2 sub- species: Classic & Woolly llamas and Suris & Huacayas alpacas.
- There are 2 protected wild species the guanacos and the vicunas.
Apart from Zoos & Circuses, llamas are recent newcomers to France, the first breeding troop started just over 20 years ago.
There are now over 2000 Llamas registered at the Bergerie Nationale at Rambouillet in France.
Three Common questions
- Do they spit? Yes, but normally only between themselves and often associated with food. It is a matter of dominance.
- Can you ride them? No, an adult llama can only carry 40kgs.
- Can you eat them? It depends on where you are; in South America llama meat is a standard part of the diet of those in the area where they are bred. In France it is illegal as the animals are classed as domestic like a cat or dog.
During your trek or encounter we can provide you with even more interesting information about llamas.
