Size: Llamas are generally larger than alpacas. Llamas can weigh up to 400 pounds and be over 5 feet tall at the shoulder, while alpacas typically weigh up to 175 pounds and are around 3.5 feet tall at the shoulder.
Appearance: Llamas have longer faces and ears than alpacas. Llamas also have a coarser coat, while alpacas have a softer, finer coat. Llamas can come in a variety of colors, including white, brown, black, and gray, while alpacas are typically white, brown, or black.
Temperament: Llamas are more outgoing and confident animals than alpacas. Llamas are often used as guard animals or pack animals, while alpacas are more commonly used for their fleece. Llamas are more likely to spit than alpacas, but both animals will spit if they feel threatened.
History: Llamas have been domesticated by humans for over 4,000 years, while alpacas have been domesticated for around 6,000 years. Llamas were originally used by the Incas as pack animals and guard animals. Alpacas were also used by the Incas, but they were primarily raised for their fleece.
Location: Llamas and alpacas are both native to South America. Llamas are found in the Andes Mountains of Peru, Bolivia, and Chile, while alpacas are found in the high-altitude plains of Peru and Bolivia.
Ancestors: Llamas and alpacas are both descended from wild camelids that lived in South America millions of years ago. The wild camelids that llamas and alpacas descended from were similar to modern-day camels and dromedaries.
Llamas and alpacas have a gestation period of around 11 months. Llamas typically give birth to one cria (baby llama) at a time, while alpacas typically give birth to twins.
Diet: Llamas and alpacas are both herbivores. They eat a variety of grasses, herbs, and shrubs. Llamas and alpacas need to have access to fresh water at all times.