Story: Exotic farm animals

Llamas (2nd of 2)

Llamas

Llamas are the largest of the camelid family and were used as beasts of burden by the Incas. These adults weigh about 180 kilograms and are about 1.25 metres high at the shoulder. Llamas have strong guard hairs and a fine undercoat. The soft undercoat is used by spinners, weavers and knitters, but is not as valuable as alpaca fibre.

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Photograph by Adele Thackray

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How to cite this page:

Jim Esson, 'Exotic farm animals - Alpacas and llamas', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/18701/llamas (accessed 20 April 2024)

Story by Jim Esson, published 24 Nov 2008