LLAMA

Llama glama

Class: mammalia

Order: Artiodactyla

Family: Camelidae

DISTRIBUTION: They range from southern Peru through western Bolivia, as far as Catamaca in Argentina and the tableland of Atacama in Chile. They can be found at altitudes of 7,600 to 15,000 ft. (2,300 to 4,600 m) in the Andes, but they are also found in lower regions where humidity is higher.

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS: They are about 4 ft (1.2 m) tall at the shoulder, and males weigh about 320 lb (145 kg). Llamas are the largest of the four wild or domesticated, humpless members of the camel family in South America; the others are the alpacas, vicunas and guanacos. The vicunas and guanacos are the only ones still found roaming in the wild, and they are protected by the Peruvian government. Llamas are domesticated forms of the guanacos. They have long, thick fleece which varies in color from white to black and brown, and can be a mixture of these colors. Dental formula is 1/3, 1/1, 2/1, 3/3.

HABITS: Of all domestic animals, they are the most suitable for steep mountain paths, high elevations and hard ground, and they can go without food and water for a few days. Stallions carry loads of 110 to 176 lb (50 to 80 kg). If the loads are heavier than they like, they refuse to move. A day's march is usually 19 mi (30 km), and llamas will travel only in groups. They spit when disturbed. Besides their use as beasts of burden, Indians drink their milk, eat their meat, and harvest their wool or make use of complete skins.

REPRODUCTION: Llamas usually start breeding when they are 3-4 years old. The mating season is between December and April, but it may vary in a zoo. After about 11 months, the mare foals. She will suckle her young for 4 months. The mare isusually ready for breeding shortly after she foals.

POPULATION: Not endangered.

DIET: Natural: The main food is grass, but they also browse.