It is likely that you may never have seen a llama – no they are not the same as alpacas!  Did you know there are only around 1500 registered llamas in Australia. Check out our calendar to find out if we are having an event nearby so you can meet these wonderful animals.

Llamas, a native of the South America Andes, are the (much) bigger cousin of the alpaca and were originally used as a beast of burden.  Their gentle nature and laid back attitude to life make them an ideal companion.  They enjoy a scratch and cuddle, and as they are unlikely to kick or bite, are trustworthy with children and the aged making them an ideal animal for pet therapy – as one student at a workshop commented – “they are very Zen – aren’t they?

Llamas have athletic and regal appearance and come in short, medium and long wool.  Whereas alpacas are primarily fleece animal, llamas are ideal companions to carry a pack for trekking or pulling a cart.  In the show ring they are judged for conformation, fleece, agility and public relations work. 

On the farm these unique animals are easy on fences and their padded feet make them gentle on our fragile soils.  Their habit of visiting a communal dung pile, keeps their parasite burden low, making them a robust, low maintenance animal, needing very little in the way of chemical intervention. 

Their many environmentally friendly features make llamas highly desirable livestock for both a hobby farm, for eco tourism and a useful addition to a commercial farm as a guardian for other livestock and of course for stud breeding.

If you would like to know more about llamas contact Glynda Bluhm, the Secretary of Llama Assn of Aust (NSW/ACT Branch) Ph 02 62303311, or come along to meet us at the numerous events we are holding around the state.

For more information about llamas visit the National Llama Association of Australasia (LAA) Website