The Paw of a Llama
A Quenzy Labastida Article
The Majestic Animal
Llama History
Fast Facts From A-Z Animals
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Artiodactyla
Family: Camelidae
Genus: Lama
Scientific Name:Lama Glama
Type:Mammal
Diet:Herbivore
Size:1.7-1.8m (5.5-6ft)
Weight:130-204kg (280-450lbs)
Top Speed:45km/h (28mph)
Life Span:15-20 years
Lifestyle:Herd
Conservation Status:Least Concern
Colour:Tan, Brown, White, Black
Favourite Food:Leaves
Habitat:Mountainous deserts and grasslands
Average Litter Size:1
Main Prey:Leaves, Grass, Shoots
Predators:Human, Puma, Coyote
Special Features:Thick furry coat and long neck
The Difference between a Llama and an Alpaca
Llamas and Alpacas are closely related animals, but they do have their differences.
"Alpacas and llamas tend to 'bridge the gap' between pets and livestock," says Dr. Chris Cebra, a camelid expert. So while llamas have long, banana shaped ears, alpacas have shorter, spear-shaped ears. Their sizes have a big difference to each other. Llamas can weigh more than 400 lbs, Alpacas can only weight up 150-180 lbs. That means the Alpaca is about half the size of a llama! Also, while Alpacas have a more smaller, "smooshed in" face, llamas have longer faces. So for example, if a Llama and Alpaca stood next to each other, their differences would show.