Vashon Llamas
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between llamas and alpacas?
The short answer is that llamas and alpacas are both part of the camilid family but llamas are generally quite a bit larger than alpacas and alpacas generally have denser and finer fiber than llamas.
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Do llamas spit?
Yes! But it really isn't a big deal. In fact, spitting is part of the way they communicate with each other. It is rare that one of our llamas would spit at a person.
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How long do they live?
The average lifespan is between 20 and 25 years although 17 is considered an older llama and many live past 25.
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Are they mean?
Our llamas enjoy interacting with a variety of people. They especially enjoy the special food that visitors feed them, so, no, they are not mean.
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What are llamas good for?
Llamas are used as guard animals (for herds of sheep, goats, alpacas, or cattle); they are used as pack animals for hikers interested in back country excursions; their fiber is used in knitting and weaving; and they are great companion animals.
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Do you use their fiber?
Yes! I spin, knit, and weave with llama fiber.