3-year-old llama for the hammer at Manorhamilton Mart

Llama for sale at Manorhamilton Mart

Another llama will come under the hammer at Manorhamilton Mart’s sheep sale later this evening (Wednesday, April 20^th, 2022).

This comes just weeks after two male llamas changed hands at the Leitrim-based mart’s weekly sheep sale.

The two domesticated South American camelids sold for €420 and €470 on Wednesday, March 30^th, 2022.

Last month, a spokesperson for the mart told That’s Farming that the “special” entry had garnered notable pre-sale interest as the mart had advertised the “rare breeds” on their Facebook page, which has over 5,000 likes.

They explained: “There was a large audience both online and at the ringside. Two male llamas were auctioned for sale with one reaching €420 and the other was sold on the night for €470.”

The mart also advertised this 3-year-old llama on its social media platform ahead of tonight’s sale.

According to the mart, the animal, which is “nicely” marked and correct for breeding, will go under the hammer in ring two at 8 pm.

Llamas: Facts 

According to a factsheet on llamas from Teagasc:

• “Completely” adaptable to the Irish climate;
• One acre of good ground can support approximately four llamas;
• Have an average life expectancy of 20-25 years;
• Do not treat them as pets; they are livestock;
• Generally, weigh 110-250kgs;
• Mature llamas stand 102-110cm at the shoulder;
• Have distinguishable curved ears;
• “Exceptional” at protecting ewes during lambing season. They “excel” at deterring foxes and dogs;
• Provide a warning at the sign of danger;
• Gestation period: 350 days;
• Females are reproductively mature by 18-24 months;
• Diet: Generally, hay or grass, concentrates and pelleted mineral supplements. Water is essential;
• Require annual vaccines and a parasite control programme – discuss with your vet;
• Trim toenails regularly and check teeth annually;
• Are “visually” dramatic – kicking, neck westing and spitting. According to Teagasc, female llamas are “usually only seen” spitting as a means of controlling other herd members;
• Agri-tourism opportunities;
• Produces luxury fibre – warm, durable, and hypoallergenic.