The landscape of many South American countries are full of them. They are cute, friendly and come in many different colours. How could you not love them? This week I am celebrating the awesomeness that is the Llama!
Recently, I’ve been delighted to be writing about My Top South American Wildlife Experiences for The Aussie Flashpacker. It’s given me a chance to think about all the fabulous creatures I’ve seen around the world and especially during my South American adventure. But, with so many incredible animals to choose from, one of the most commonly seen, favourites of mine got knocked off the top spots.
Therefore I felt they deserved their own post, just to acknowledge the joy they brought me almost every day in Peru, Bolivia and Ecuador…
The loveable llama.
Llamas have been a big part of the local lifestyle in many parts of South America since way before the Spanish Invasion. Carrying heavy loads across the difficult terrain in the Andes and contributing their wool to make the cosy clothes required in the cold temperatures often endured in these areas. Apparently even their poo is useful, as it’s possible to dry it and use it as fuel for a fire.
As an animal, they are respected and looked after by the locals. I never once saw llama on a menu and their close friends the alpaca are only occasionally seen as a dinner option for tourists.
Anyway, here’s the moment you’ve all be waiting for… a photographic ode to these wonderful animals…
Have you taken the llama-selfie challenge?
(For more cute animals, see here and don’t forget to check out my top South American wildlife experiences here)
Aww, amazing shots! These made me smile 🙂 What cute and interesting-looking animals llamas are!!
They are lovely. So glad they made you smile – it’s so hard not to around a llama 🙂
Cool post. They were in the garden of my hotel in Copacabana.
Thanks! I wish I’d stayed at that hotel!! 😉
Las Olas!
Noted for next time 😀