The Differences Between Llamas And Alpacas
The differences between llamas and alpacas seem subtle if we are not used to seeing these animals that live in Peru and Bolivia on a regular basis. However, they are easier to distinguish than it seems.
Similarities between llamas and alpacas
Before listing their differences, it is pertinent to note their similarities: these animals have a very similar habitat and are closely related to each other. They both belong to the camel family, and they also have strong ties to vicuñas and guanacos, although these two are wild animals.
Both alpacas and llamas have a similar diet: they are herbivorous and feed by grazing. The two species live in herds and are domesticated animals; they live peacefully alongside man. Now we will see their differences, which go beyond the physical:
Differences between llamas and alpacas
The differences between llamas and alpacas are obvious to those who are used to seeing them, although for someone who travels for the first time to the areas where they can be found they may look like the same animal.
The characteristics that make them different animals also have to do with their relationship with man and their character, not only with their physique. Both are docile animals, but they react differently to the proximity of strangers.
Height and proportions
One of the most notable differences between llamas and alpacas is their size: llamas are visibly taller than alpacas. Llamas measure around 120 centimeters to the withers, while alpacas barely reach 90 centimeters.
Therefore, they are also heavier: llamas exceed 100 kilograms in weight, while alpacas do not usually exceed 60. That is, in general size, alpacas are not taller than an adult human being, while that the flames, between the neck and the ears, do exceed their stature.
Face
If we look closely at their face, we find more differences between llamas and alpacas: alpacas are rounder and have less sharp facial features than their llama cousins.
Llamas have elongated and pointed ears: those of alpacas are more rounded. The same happens with the snout: that of the alpacas stands out more and has a more elongated appearance.
The money
As for their relationship with humans, the difference between these two animals is also noticeable. Alpaca wool is a highly coveted fiber for being soft and light, so not only do they have a thicker and more abundant coat than llamas, but they also have a fluffier appearance.
On the contrary, as llama wool is rougher and difficult to work with, they have been used as draft animals. This also takes advantage of its greater physical power. Llamas therefore have less wool and a rougher and less lovable appearance than alpacas.
The character
Another of the definitive differences between llamas and alpacas is in their character. While both are herd animals, domesticated and curious about humans, the differences end here.
Alpacas are rather shy animals that will run away if strangers try to get close. They do not like to work for the human being and if they ever feel upset or angry they may resort to spitting; although if he has an escape he will prefer to move away
On the contrary, llamas are more outgoing, but also more stubborn. If a llama feels annoyed or that she is not being treated as she likes, she will have no hesitation in spitting or kicking those around her. In addition, she may decide not to work for the human being and to lie still or lie down, so that it is impossible to force her to move.
The differences between llamas and alpacas seem formed from small details, although you only need to know how to notice them to make them obvious. If you are in front of one of these animals and you do not know what it is, trust its size and its ears instead of trying to provoke it to spit at you.
