Llamas and alpacas are the most popular auquenids in South America. They might look similar, but they have particular differences. In this article, you’ll know all the distinctions for each animal.
Even during your Machu Picchu trip you may spot a group of them. Is not common to see llamas and alpacas together, but not impossible in artificial environments.
In their family we also have the guanaco and the vicuña. The last one is in the Peruvian National Emblem. However, these two are wild. So, it is difficult to see llamas and alpacas running in the grass as they are domesticated.
Learn how to tell the difference between the alpacas and the llamas with some concepts. Cusco has specimens of various colors, sizes and ages. So, you must learn the difference between these before your trip.
At a simple sight is a simple recognition of sizes. But, let’s dig into the measures:
You’ll first notice that llamas are notably bigger than alpacas. Every part of their body looks bigger. They are not also bigger in height but in weight too.
An adult llama can reach up to 1.7 meters to 1.9 meters (5 ft 7 in to 6 ft 1 in). They can weigh between 125 kg and 270 kg (275 lb and 595 lb), but keep in mind that there are also differences between genders.
Another big difference is the head size. Llamas have longer heads and curved ears. Maybe that is why they are brave and confrontational animals, especially when they feel threatened.
Alpacas on the other hand, are more gentle and shy. Both species are herd animals.
As said before, llamas have bigger facial features, including their banana shaped ears. Alpaca ears are according to their faces.
Llamas’ snouts are larger than alpaca’s. This may have worked well for their manipulation during the Inca empire as they worked as pack animals.
Many consider alpacas to be cuter than llamas. This may be due to their smooshed and fluffy faces, unlike llamas.
Another difference is that alpacas have more variety in their colors. They go from whites to blacks, browns and a mix of those three.
Llamas have an undercoat and an overcoat, and one of them is thicker than the other. For example, baby alpacas have a unique first fleece. This makes the most expensive alpaca fiber.
Llamas on the other hand, have a coarse fiber. Average llama fibers have full colors and spotted patterns mixing their natural colors. However the baby llama type is a more fine wool than the adult llamas.
Despite their fiber thickness, the llama wool and leather can be used for rugs ropes. The alpaca wool is often used for exclusive clothes and garments. Cusco markets have these special products on sale.
Some exclusive brands also sell these as a unique item in their catalogs.
The main home of both of these animals is within South America, especially in Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina. Its natural habitat is in the Andes. They are more likely to be found in high altitude environments.
Their fur is a great thermal insulator. They can survive in dry and cold environments. However, llamas are more adaptable.
Llamas are more likely to defend themselves. When they spit is because they want to discipline their inferiors as they live in herds. Alpacas are more peaceful and they spit if they don’t have another alternative.
However, both of their temperaments depend on the contexts of living. If they lived in more social environments they tend to be more friendly and curious with humans.
Their behavior is notable along the Sacred Valley routes and Machu Picchu itself. Llamas and alpacas keep their distance, but you still may spot them.
Now that you are able to differ between these two South American species, get ready for a trip to Peru. Cusco awaits with some fuzzy companions and great products, such as alpaca meat too.
Take into account the respect and distance that you have to keep in mind. Both of them are noble creatures and as a tourist or foreigner is your responsibility to protect them as well.
Some organizations around the world protect llamas, alpacas, vicuñas and guanacos from the harshness of humans. For example, guanacos are in danger of extinction because of the depredation of their environment.
Buying from locals and green artisans may contribute to their conservation as they believe in mutual retribution. Be part of the change and support local vendors and animal protection organizations.
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