Breeding

In the past, breeding age for the llama female seemed to be one year. I feel this is not the best age. Pregnant females can be found for sale under two years of age. It is better to wait until the female is over two and closer to three years of age before becoming pregnant.

The young males in the pasture have been known to impregnate before the six months of age. We started ours at 18 months of age.

We halter each and lead them to a safe level area for breeding. My wife brings in the female on a lead. I try to control the male to be sure he is not too aggressive, and hurt the female. The male may try to force the female down with his legs on her back, pushing her down to the ground into the 'Kush' position. Her tail should be wrapped as to keep all fiber from her tail to not get tangled into the males mating tool. He will creep up behind her until he has connected. Time this event and also mark it on your calendar as to keep track of all of these events to be sure of the waiting period before the cria is born.

Ready to start your own llama herd? Be sure the llamas you choose are of good quality, good health and conformation with no known defects. Wool is optional. Heavy wool llamas have not been known to recoup your original investment by selling their wool.

Good temperament is a must in our herd. Easy halter and leading your llama into your llama trailer or mini van is always a plus. Llamas can be used for packing, as a fun companion or used for guarding sheep. These may not survive an attack of neighborhood dogs that come through, over, or under the fence.
As you become serious in owning and raising a llama herd. Many good publications including videos are available from many Llama catalogs and Web sites.