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Llama Facts Yesterday & Today Lamas (single "I"), which include the llama (double "II"), alpaca, guanaco and the endangered vicuna, are members of the camel (camelid) family. Originating in the Central Plains of North America about 40 million years ago, the lama predecessors migrated to South America around 2.5 million years ago. It's cousin, the camel, relocated to the Middle East and other regions of the world. The end of the Ice Age 10,000 to 12,000 years ago marked the extinction of the camelid in North America. Llamas were domesticated from the guanacos of the Andean highlands of Peru 5,000 to 6,000 years ago and are among the world's oldest domesticated animals. While primarily a beast of burden for the native herdsmen, llamas also provided them with meat, wool, hides for shelter, manure pellets for fuel, and became sacrificial offerings to their gods. Today there are an estimated 7 million llamas and alpacas in South America. Based on information provided by the International Lama Registry, in the United States and Canada there's an estimated 100,000 llamas, 10,000 alpacas, and 150 guanacos. Llamas have international appeal, with countries such as New Zealand augmenting their fiber industry with llama and alpaca wool. As in ancient times, the llama today is important to the agricultural economy of the remote highlands of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru. In North America the llama and alpaca industry is recognized as a viable agricultural entity. Llamas also make great pets! For more information on llamas call one of llama farms listed on this website under Classifications and Listings. Miniature Donkeys Imagine the perfect pet' imagine the Miniature Donkey. From the moment this appealing, long-ears foal is born, its mission is to give love and thrive on attention. They are without a doubt the most adorable, affectionate, soft & cuddly creatures in the animal kingdom. Completely trustworthy around children, the elderly, and the handicapped, Miniature Donkeys (when mature) are easily trained to pull carts and to be ridden by small children. They are companionable with other livestock and become quite attached to their herdmates, as well as their owners. Miniature Donkeys are members of the equine family. They are native to the Mediterranean Islands of Sicily and Sardinia, but have been in this country approximately fifty years. Today there are only an estimated five thousand of these unique diminutive donkeys in North America, with importations no longer allowed. Miniature Donkeys are very popular because so many people realize and value their unique qualities; they are also a good financial investment' an investment you can love! Sunday, March 6, 2005 RETURN |
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