Page 3 - Kind News, Jr. September October 2021, Teaching Guide

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Critter Clues FROM PAGE 7 KINDNEWS.ORG!
Our mystery critter is the llama.

These versatile animals have played
important roles in society for thousands
of years.
Historically, llamas were used as working
animals. They are one of the oldest domesticated
animals in the world. Prominent in the Andes
Mountains, they were used by the Incas of Peru
for clothes and food. In the 19th century, llamas
were brought to the United States. Today, they
are still used all over the world to move goods
and guard livestock. Their fleece is also used
for fabric.
Llamas are very adaptable. Because they
lived at high altitudes in the mountains, they
adapted to need a lower amount of oxygen.
Their thick coat helps them withstand cold
temperatures and rain, while their shorter hair
on other areas helps dissipate heat when they live
opposite page, from top: alexas_fotos/pixabay; redrover. this page: (critter clues) oleksii kriachko/bigstock.
in warmer climates.
Llamas are social animals and live in herds in the
wild. They communicate with one another by clucking,
humming, and using high-pitched calls to warn others of
danger. They also use ear and tail movements to communicate.
They spit as a way to defend themselves by appearing aggressive.
Llamas are very gentle animals, but they will fiercely protect animals they consider part of their herd,
including livestock. They are also fast learners and can be easily trained. In recent years, llamas have begun
to be trained as therapy animals for places like hospitals, senior communities, and schools. During the pandemic
in 2020, one farmer in Oregon brought his pet llama to help the seniors in his community!
Interested in adopting a llama as a pet or a guard animal? Llamas need special grooming, a specific diet,
and a lot of space to be happy and healthy. For more information, visit llamasanctuary.com. For more information
on llamas as therapy animals, visit mentalfloss.com and search “llama therapy.”

BOOK NOOK

Jobs if You Like ... Animals

Written by Charlotte Guillain | Recommended for ages 6-8
Do you like animals? Do you wonder what you should do when
you grow up? Then this book is for you! Read all about different
careers that are perfect for animal lovers.

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