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Is it only here in South Africa that the cuddly Llama is becoming the "drama llama" icon to justify and excuse all sorts of hilarious human behaviour? Overnight this quirky relative of the camel is becoming the subject of paintings, emojis, advertising - even children's bedding, clothing and toys. Until recently I just thought it was another exotic animal with a smug expression. Then we met a distant neighbours new pets and I am oooo la la about a llama!
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Llamas are surprisingly friendly and curious creatures. As we climbed out of the car they literally stormed the fence to insist on undivided attention. I have worked long enough with animals to be wary of a seemingly cute face which hides nasty teeth. But it wasn't long before I was stroking the incredibly soft face. I don't believe I have ever felt such a soft nose on any animal I've cuddled!
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Originally from the Central Plains of North America, Llamas were domesticated as pack (and sometimes meat) animals in the Peruvian highlands. Their wool is becoming increasingly sought after - and no wonder as it is luxuriously soft! They will readily adopt a flock of sheep or goats; being wonderful guards for their adopted fur family. At full materity a Llama can weigh 200kg and grow up to 1.8m tall! They live on average to 20 years, although sadly shorter in captivity. They are generally stronger than a horse and extremely hardly as livestock.
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Apparently Llamas make as wonderful and affectionate a pet as most farm animals. While I intrigued by their soft coat and gentle nature I don't think I am quite ready to make space in my goats area for a few Llama.....well maybe not just yet.
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Oh I can totally see a llama in your future haha
Really?!!! Well I'd have to get the okay from my goats first!!
Just remember, it's always easier to beg forgiveness than ask permission :)
Thank you @pixresteemer!
Great pictures! I considered getting a llama to live with my brush herd for protection, but I haven't ever done it. I did have to milk one once, which was challenging. I think they're adorable, but I still like goats so much better!
Goats always get my vote! I don't know how kindly my goats would take to a llama, they can be real social snobs :D
I know what you mean! Mine turn up their noses at cows and horses. They don't mind chickens though.
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These are precious, their eyes say it all :) I can just see you with a couple guarding your sweet goats! They're so beautiful, although those teeth are a bit intimidating. I say go for it @buckaroo!
I read from magazine when I was a kid, Ilama can be a good guardian for the ranch, but I think it's because its love towards other animals.Thanks for sharing the pictures @buckaroo.. I never seen about Ilama for real, nit even at the zoo. This animal is one of animals that I curious to touch😊
So glad that I find your post on my feed again😍
Their fur does look soft and I had no idea that they came from the central plains of North America!
Thanks for sharing!!!
There are at least a couple of people in Adelaide who keep alpacas as house pets.
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haha! I see Llamas in your future! Those are such wonderful animals and your photography captures them so well!