With fall upon us, it's time to consider that winter is right around the corner! In spring, we clean barns and pastures, repair fence, and enjoy letting our lamas graze and dance all summer in the fresh, green grass.

With winter comes more work! We still clean barn, and depending on your geographic location and your winter climate, that can be a challenge! As is hauling and moving hay, keeping water fresh and unfrozen, and making sure everyone is warm and comfortable in the elements.

Geriatric and bred llamas require more nutrition, especially in colder climates where their bodies have to work harder to keep them warm. Minerals are especially important during this time of year, as is feed supplementation, especially in cold climates. A 300# llama will typically eat 1 - 2% of it's body weight, or 3 - 6 pounds a day. In winter climates, more energy is needed to maintain body temperature. Corn (cracked or rolled is preferred) can be added to the diet for more energy and to aid in producing heat, however any change in diet should be made gradually to avoid stomach upset. It is important to weigh or body score your llamas regularly. Sudden weight loss can indicate illness.

Water supply is also important. It's no fun to go to the barn in the morning and find a frozen solid water tank! Llamas need fresh water available to them at all times. Not every one has the ability to install automatic waterers, but there are other options. Livestock tanks with water heaters in them are one such option. It is necessary to make sure that the element is grounded to avoid electrocution. And llamas can and do remove heating elements from water tanks and result in barn fires. Another option, which works well for folks who have fewer llamas is electric heated buckets. A 5-gallon bucket costs less than $40 at your local livestock supply store.

Llamas require at least a three-sided shelter to protect them from blowing snow and rain. The opening of the shelter should face south so that the animals are sheltered from the frigid northerly winds and they can enjoy the sun. Bedding in their sheltered area is also essential. Wheat or barley straw works well and should be changed often as it becomes soiled and wet.

Vitamins are essential for development of young llamas. Llama breeders in northern climates, with shorter daytime hours, will often give Vitamin D injections since their young llamas get limited Vitamin D from the sun, especially if they are born later in the year.

Winter feed and shelter requirements will vary upon your geographic location. Other considerations are the condition, age, activity level of your llamas, and whether they are bred or not.

Suggested Reading:
Caring for Llamas: A Health and Management Guide by Clare Hoffman, DVM & Ingrid Asmus
A Guide to Raising Llamas byGail Birutta Llamas
An Introduction to Care, Training & Handling by Sandi Burt