Llamas have been an important livestock animal since the Incan Empire. They provided meat and wool, and they carried goods over thousands of miles of Incan roads. Today, they are used for all those reasons, as well as a few others.

They can serve as livestock guardians, companion animals, and are even important for animal shows. It’s no wonder that a holiday was created in their honor. A holiday that’s observed annually on the 9th of December is known as National Llama Day.

This day can be observed by former and current llama owners, people who are curious about these animals, or people who are thinking about purchasing one of these animals.

The History Of National Llama Day

Although much of what is known about this holiday is lost to history, it is known that National Llama Day was created in Manitoba, Canada, in 1932. This is when a drought killed off a large number of livestock animals, including sheep, and llamas became extremely important. It has been observed ever since by llama enthusiasts and people who raise and breed these beautiful animals.

Some Fun Facts About Llamas

Below are some fun facts about llamas that people might want to learn about in anticipation of National Llama Day. We found the following facts to be quite informative, and we think most of our readers will as well.

• Llamas are closely related to camels and are actually members of the camelid family.
• Camelids appeared on the Central Plains of North America about 40 million years ago.
• Llamas were first domesticated in the Peruvian highlands approximately 5,000 years ago.
• The average llama is between 5’6” and 5’9” but can grow as large as 6 feet tall.
• Llamas can weigh between 280 and 450 pounds. They can carry approximately 25-30% of their body weight on a 10-12 mile trek easily.
• If llamas are overloaded with too much weight, they will often lie down or refuse to move forward.
• A llama will spit when agitated, but it will also kick.
• Llamas produce an eco-friendly fertilizer that’s becoming increasingly popular.

Observing National Llama Day

There are a number of ways a person can observe National Llama Day. People can visit a llama farm, learn more about these animals, or, if they have the space and the aptitude, buy themselves a llama.

If a person decides to observe this holiday, then they should be sure that they have the knowledge, the space, and the time to dedicate to them. People can also observe this holiday by using the hashtag #NationalLlamaDay online.