Llama Facts:
Llamas are a non-exotic member of the camelid family. This family includes their cousins the dromedary and bactrian camels as well as alpacas, guanacos and vicunas. Their origin has been confirmed, by fossil records, to have begun from an ancient ancestor in North America.
Llamas are modified ruminants, that is, they chew their cud but do not have rumens (the first stomach compartment) they have only a three-chambered stomach. A variety of forages, properly managed, will supply most of a llama's nutritional needs. This is due to the above average efficiency of their digestive system in converting lower feeds and forages into protein. Supplements in the form of grain, free choice salt and minerals are often needed to balance their diet and provide for proper nutrient requirements.
Camelids have two toed "feet" with a toe nail sticking out of the end of each toe. However, they walk on a kind of leathery pad, which gives them excellent traction. In addition, this characteristic means that llamas can "cruise" delicate woodlands with little or no impact to the environment.
They have no front upper teeth but a unique dental palate which allows them to graze without having to uproot pasture grasses while feeding, as other livestock do.
Llamas have a misunderstood reputation for spitting. This type of behavior was developed for their interactions with each other. When appropriately raised, they never spit at people, save the occasional instance when you happen to be in the wrong place when a "food fight" breaks out between your animals.
Llama fiber is a natural protein animal fiber with "no lanolin" or grease and is classified as a specialty or luxury fiber. Their fleece is sought after by spinners, knitters and weavers for a variety of clothing and craft projects. Fly fishermen use the llama's course guard hair in their craft of tying flies.
