Meet the Llama
Llamas are members of the camel family, and are cousins with alpacas. They are known for being dependable, loving, and calm. Unliked other cameloids, Llamas don’t have dorsal humps, but they do typically have smiling faces.
About the Llama
Llamas are natively found in the Andes Mountains in South America. They are considered sacred animals among Andean people, who call them “silent brothers”. Because of their calm and sweet natures, some hospitals and nursing homes have used llamas as therapy animals. Their preferred habitat is mountainous deserts and grasslands. Llamas can come in a wide variety of sizes and colors, and have short tails and tongues. Since they don’t have upper teeth, a rare llama bite is relatively harmless.
Height | 5’7″ to 6’0″ |
Weight | 280 to 450 pounds |
Diet | Leaves, grass, shoots |
Gestation Period | 11.5 months |
Life Span | 15-20 years |
Threats | Natural predators, humans |
Scientists categorize llamas as charismatic megafaunas
This means that Llamas have an appearance that is appealing to humans. Other “charismatic megafaunas” include pandas, male lions, gray wolves, and bald eagles.