Runaway Llama Drama!
Seen any llamas lately?
Credit:© Copula, Shutterstock
Diana Heimann had a prob-llama—her 7-year-old llama Gizmo was missing. This past December, after moving the long distance from the state of Indiana to Westchester County, New York, Gizmo jumped the fence of his new home. Along with his llama friend Sandman, Gizmo wanted to look around the new town. And, while Sandman was soon lassoed and returned to the farm, Gizmo took off. Gizmo’s escape prompted a weeks-long search that enlisted the help of many people, animals, and electronic devices throughout the region.
Heimann employed several trusted pet-finding techniques. For instance, she called Gizmo’s name. But, Gizmo did not respond. She posted on social media websites. She called for llama search parties. She made signs that featured photos of Gizmo’s face and backside (in case anyone spotted Gizmo running away). She then moved on to some experimental techniques. For example, she called the owners of a drone photography business. A drone is an aircraft that operates without a pilot on board. Drones were sent high into the sky, in the hopes of using heat-sensing technology to locate Gizmo. Two Tibetan spaniels went in search—or should we say in sniff—of Gizmo, but the dogs barked more than sniffed. The search went on for more than two weeks, but Gizmo was nowhere to be found . . .
A llama has thick hair and a long neck and looks somewhat like a small camel. But unlike camels, llamas have no hump.
Credit: © Thinkstock
You might be wondering how Gizmo survived for so long without going home for food and other necessities. But, have no fear, the llama is a hardy animal. It eats grasses and low shrubs. The llama does not need to drink much water, either. It can get much of the moisture it needs from plants. There was no evidence that Gizmo planned his escape. He did not pack blankets or books, for instance. But, he could have carried many blankets and books if he wanted. Llamas can carry about 130 pounds (60 kilograms). They can travel from 15 to 20 miles (24 to 32 kilometers) a day with a full load.
However, Gizmo was not found many miles (or kilometers) away from his home. Seventeen days after he escaped, Gizmo was found wandering only 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) away. Gizmo was reunited with Heimann and with Sandman. At last, he was home.
