HERITAGE Llamas originated on the central plains of North America and spent their first 40 million years grazing our grasslands. Then, some three million years ago, camels migrated to Asia and Africa, while llama-like animals dispersed to South America. Just 10,000 to 12,000 years ago, at the end of the last ice age, the camelids became extinct in North America. Meanwhile, in the highlands of Bolivia and Peru some 4,000 to 5,000 years ago, llamas were domesticated, placing them among the oldest domestic animals in the world. It wasn’t until the late 1800s that private animal collectors and zoos reintroduced the camelids back to their original North American homeland. CHARACTERISTICS, HABITS & BEHAVIORS Llamas are highly social animals and need the companionship of another llama or other grazing livestock. When they come into contact with humans they like to be touched on their necks and backs. Llamas communicate their moods with a series of tail, body and ear postures, and vocalizations. Humming is a common manner of communication between llamas, and indicates a variety of moods from contentedness to aggression. Another interesting llama expression is the shrill, rhythmic alarm call emitted at the sight of a strange animal (especially dogs) or a frightening situation. Because of their elegant wool and graceful posture llamas have a striking beauty unlike any other hoofed creature in the world. Their wool ranges from white to black, with shades of gray, brown, red and roan in between. Markings can be a variety of patterns from solid to spotted.
