>>HobbyKnob Farm Llamas

Llamas are native to the high Andes of South America and have been domesticated by the Indians for well over 4000 years. Originally used as pack animals to transport goods across the rugged mountains, llamas have become popular for their high quality fiber, their ability to guard flocks of sheep and goats against wild dogs, coyotes and other predators, their extraordinary curiosity, their willingness to become a close friend of man, and their gentle behavior. LLamas learn quickly and can be trained to negotiate obstacles that may be found on a trail, to wear a pack to carry hiking gear, to pull a cart in a parade or to walk up steps to visit a school or nursing home. Once they have developed a trust and positive bond with people, they become lovable, responsive and gentle creatures.

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Contrary to popular belief llamas DO NOT SPIT, BITE, OR KICK people.....unless they are ABUSED. Llamas DO spit at EACH OTHER as a form of communication, particularly over food.

We have an active show association where we take llamas to participate in halter and performance shows. Llamas are known to show up at fairs, parades, schools, nursing homes, hiking trails and even the beach! Llama fiber can be felted and spun into yarn. It has a different fiber structure than sheep wool therefore it is not itchy.

Many people will tell you that llamas are EASY to care for. Well, compared to a horse or a cow, they may be, but they do require some care. They need to be sheared yearly so they can stay cool (we are not the Andes) in the summer, they need access to shelter, water and pasture or hay. Yes, they are very efficient converters of protein and do not require hays like alfalfa. Nor do they require a large amount of feed when in good condition and not pregnant. They eat like sheep and goats-grass and leaves in the summer, grass hay in the winter. They have soft pads on their feet so they can manage a variety of terrains but will not damage the land. Their "beans" (manure) are prized by gardeners. They may need to have their nails trimmed once a year and they need CDT and rabies vaccinations and worming, depending on your situation. If you live in a location frequented by deer you must be able to worm on a 4-6 week schedule to prevent meningeal worm. I recommend having regular fecal checks performed by you or your vet and basing your worming program on those results.

I am not currently breeding or selling any llamas. I am happy to talk with you about llamas or have you out to meet my llamas and learn what is involved in keeping llama. Keep in mind that they have a lifespan up to 25 years. They are a commitment! Please buy from someone that will make themselves available for training help and questions EVEN AFTER YOU TAKE THE LLAMA HOME! A reputable breeder will always be available to you. Beware of Craig's list llamas. A good llama will have at least be halter and lead trained. Consider fostering or adopting through Southeast Llama Rescue. Do not get into llamas or alpacas with the plan of making a lot of money. That bubble burst a long time ago. Get these animals because you love them and can commit to taking care of them for the long haul!