Why do llamas spit?

Llamas have a funny way to talk. When they are mad, annoyed, or want to show who is the boss, they sometimes spit.

Step-by-step:

• They talk with spitting: Llamas don’t use words like we do. Spitting is one of the ways they say “Back off!” or “That is mine.”
• Usually at other llamas: Most of the time llamas spit at other llamas, not people. They do it to stop something they don’t like, like someone taking their food or being too close.
• What the spit is: It can be a little messy and smell bad. It is a mix of spit and some of what they were chewing. It is not nice, but it usually isn’t dangerous.
• They try other things first: Before spitting, a llama might hum, stamp its foot, or pin its ears back to warn the other animal.

What to do if you see a llama

• Stand back and be calm.
• Don’t stick your face close to the llama.
• Let the grown-up or farmer tell you if it’s okay to pet the llama.
• If a llama looks upset, move away slowly and quietly.

Fun fact: Llamas can also hum and make other noises to talk to each other. Spitting is just one of their ways to say something!

So: llamas spit to tell others to give them space or to show who is in charge. If you are careful and listen to adults, you can watch llamas safely.