Llamas give birth while standing, with the baby typically presenting front feet first, followed by the head.
The Birthing Process for Llamas
When a female llama, known as a dam, is ready to give birth, the process typically unfolds in a specific manner. Based on observations, including those referenced:
- Llamas generally give birth standing up.
- The baby llama, called a cria, is born with a specific presentation.
- The typical presentation is the front feet emerging first, followed closely by the head.
Herd Behavior During Birth
During the birth of a cria, it is common for the other females in the herd to gather around the birthing dam. This behavior is believed to be a protective measure, potentially guarding against male llamas or predators.
In summary, llama birth is characterized by the mother standing, the specific front-feet-first and head-next presentation of the cria, and the supportive presence of the female herd.
