Questions From Readers

By Cathy Spalding
www.gentlespiritllamas.com

Catching A Llama

Hi Nicole,

Without the benefit of a catch area, most llamas are not particularly easy to catch or "capture". A catch area is a must. It can be constructed in a number of different ways with the optimum sizing no smaller than 9' x 9' and no larger than 12' x 12'. It certainly does not have to be fancy but does need to be safe and secure. Corral panels, made specifically to interconnect and create a catch or holding area/pen, are available through a number of vendors and farm/feed stores. An existing stall can work well. Fence or gate panels can be fashioned together to create a catch pen. Creative configurations can be arranged using shed walls, fencing and gates. It is important that any catch area be a place where the llama can feel safe and comfortable. The ideal placement is to situate this catch area in or near their shelter and feeding spot. You need to be able to completely close it to contain the llama but it should be left open most of the time so that they can walk in and out of it freely. Treats can be offered in there and even placing their daily hay there at times will help them feel more motivated and comfortable to enter the area. If it is only used for "catching" they will quickly understand that concept and not go near it! It is useful if the catch pen itself could be situated within a larger catch area. An obvious example would be inside the barn. The animals can be herded into the barn, the barn doors closed and then the particular llama separated out and moved into the catch pen. No barn? A larger catch or containment area can be created with gates and fencing around the shelter/feeding area. The entrance/gate to this area would normally remain open, as they would obviously need access to shelter and feed. Coming and going into this larger area would be a very normal part of their routine.

My best to you, Cathy

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