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Llamas for Guarding Livestock |
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Llamas, who are long-lived, can provide an
effective, long-term and economical alternative to predator control in a
variety of farm and ranch conditions.
Effective Guard llamas are highly
successful in preventing predation in sheep and goat flocks. a survey of
guard llama users indicates that over 50% of the guard llamas were 100%
effective, and another 40% to 45% were highly effective in reducing losses
of sheep to predators. Guard llamas
are particularly effective against coyotes and dogs. Studies show
that most sheep losses to predators are due to coyotes. Llamas are
equally effective in guarding sheep, goats and alpacas.
No Training
Llamas do not have to be
trained or raised with sheep or goats to be effective guards. A
llama should be introduced to a flock while in a small pasture and remain in a
relatively small area for a few days until the llama and the other animals bond
with one another. Gelded males and females are equally effective.
Llama Care
Llamas eat the same foods as sheep
or goats. No special foods or supplements are necessary. An
annual vaccination booster, proper worming, occasional toe nail trimming
and shearing in the spring are the only routine procedures needed for
llamas. Llamas
have few medical problems and guard llama mortality is very low.
Age of Llamas
Llamas of a variety of ages at the time of initial introduction have
proven to be effective guards. Using llamas younger than 18 months is not
recommended.
Economical
Llamas live a long time, have low maintenance, require no training, eat
the same food as sheep, goats and alpacas and generally have good health, all of
which help to make llamas economical even for the small farm flock or herd owner.
Companion Animal The guard llama can also be enjoyed as a
companion animal. If raised and trained properly, they are gentle,
inquisitive and easy to handle. |
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Click
Here to See Guard
Llamas in Action
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Some Additional Resources About Guard Llamas
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Guard Llamas. Summary of major
research investigation conducted by Dr. William L. Franklin and
Kelly J.
Powell of Iowa State University. For complete report, click
here.
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Sheep Guarding.
Brief article about the use of guard llamas available online at
"Llamapaedia".
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Ask the Herdsman-Guard Llamas.
Brief article by Hank Kauffman published in "Llama Banner".
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