# Llama (*Lama glama*)

> Llamas are domesticated South American camelids used for centuries as pack animals, fibre producers, and livestock guardians in the Andes. They weigh 130–200 kg (290–440 lb), communicate with hums and ear posture, and spit at rivals — occasionally at people who annoy them.

- **Category:** Mammal
- **Conservation status (IUCN):** Domesticated
- **Range:** Domesticated in the Andean highlands of Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina; farmed worldwide on every continent except Antarctica.
- **Canonical page:** https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/llama/
- **Last reviewed:** 2026-07-16

## Scientific classification

- **Kingdom:** Animalia
- **Phylum:** Chordata
- **Class:** Mammalia
- **Order:** Artiodactyla
- **Family:** Camelidae
- **Genus:** Lama

## Facts at a glance

| Attribute | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Scientific name | Lama glama |
| Diet | Herbivore — grass, hay, and mountain vegetation |
| Habitat | Andean highlands; domestic herds worldwide |
| Lifespan | 15–20 years (up to 25 with good care) |
| Weight | 130–200 kg (290–440 lb) |
| Top speed | Up to 45 km/h (28 mph) at a gallop |
| Conservation status | Domesticated (IUCN) |

## Andean domestication

Llamas were domesticated from guanacos more than 5,000 years ago by cultures such as the Inca, who used them to carry goods along mountain trails where wheeled transport was impossible. Selective breeding produced animals with calm temperaments and strong pack capacity.

## Guard animals

Modern farmers deploy llamas with sheep and goat flocks to deter coyotes, foxes, and stray dogs. A guardian llama patrols the pasture, alarm calls, and may chase or strike intruders with its feet. Not every llama suits guard work — gelded males are often preferred.

## Communication and social life

Llamas hum to stay in contact with the herd, cluck to their young, and orgle during breeding. They establish hierarchy through posturing and spitting; spit contains stomach contents and is aimed mainly at other llamas disputing food or rank.

## Care and fibre

Llamas need pasture or hay, shelter from extreme heat, regular hoof trimming, and annual shearing if fibre is collected. Their wool is warm and lanolin-free. Because they are herd animals, a solitary llama becomes stressed without companions.

## Frequently asked questions

### What's the difference between a llama and an alpaca?

Llamas are larger and were bred as pack animals with banana-shaped ears. Alpacas are smaller, bred for fine fleece, with shorter faces and spear-shaped ears.

### Do llamas spit?

Yes — usually at each other over food or hierarchy. People who mishandle or startle llamas may get spat at too.

### Are llamas good with children?

Well-socialised llamas can be gentle, but they are livestock with strong kicks and spitting. Supervised interaction and respect for their space are essential.

### How much weight can a llama carry?

A fit adult llama can pack about 25–30% of its body weight — roughly 45–60 kg — on mountain trails.

### Where do llamas come from?

Llamas were domesticated in the Andes of Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. They are now raised on farms worldwide.

## Sources

- [IUCN Red List — Lama glama.](https://www.iucnredlist.org/search?query=Lama%20glama&searchType=species)
- [Animal Diversity Web — Lama glama. University of Michigan Museum of Zoology.](https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Lama_glama/)

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Source: Global Animal Guide (https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/llama/). Licensed CC BY-NC 4.0 — free for non-commercial reuse with attribution.