Llamas don’t just use their ears and tails to communicate—they also make funny and interesting sounds! From soft hums to loud alarm calls, each noise has a special meaning.
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Humming: Llamas hum all the time! They hum when they’re happy, curious, nervous, or even when they’re just thinking. Baby llamas (called crias) hum to their moms to feel safe.
The Alarm Call: Llamas are natural guardians, and if they sense danger, they make a loud, high-pitched alarm call that sounds like a cross between a shriek and a whinny. This noise alerts the rest of the herd to predators such as coyotes or stray dogs. Hearing this sound from a llama is a clear sign they are on high alert.
Orgling: Male llamas make a funny bubbling noise called an "orgle" when they are trying to impress a female.
Snorts and Clucks: Llamas also make snorting, clicking, and clicking sounds. A quick snort might mean, "Give me some space!" while a cluck can be a friendly greeting.
IMAGES BY:
1. Jackie Hope
2. Yucel Moran
3. David Vargas