The world’s oldest llama celebrates his 27th birthday!

This lama is only similar in name to the Dalai Lama, the spiritual master of Tibetan Buddhists.

First Published Jan 31, 2023, 11:58 AM IST

KA special birthday party was held at a home in New Mexico the other day. It was the celebration of the world’s oldest lama. First of all, don’t get me wrong. This lama is only similar in name to the Dalai Lama, the spiritual master of Tibetan Buddhists. This llama is a domesticated animal found in South America. They are also known as the South American camel. They are social animals. Closely interacts with humans.

The normal lifespan of llamas is 15 to 20 years. This is what prompted its owners, the Straight family of Albuquerque, New Mexico, to celebrate the llama’s birthday. According to owner Andrew Thomas, the lama is officially named Dalai Lama. The family did something else. The Guinness Book of World Records was also invited to their llama’s 27th birthday. To be considered for the award of being the world’s oldest llama.

Today, the one-eyed llama is a member of the family of Andrew Thomas and Key Straight’s daughter, Samiba ‘Sammy’ Straight. They openly say that he is like a member of their family. For his birthday, friends were invited and a small party was held. The celebration reportedly included burgers, chocolate cake, decorations, party favors and more. A cake with 27 written on it was also cut during the celebrations. Moreover, the llama’s friend, Gelato, a Nigerian pygmy goat, also joined the celebration.

Andrew Thomas says that the Gelate cries when the lama goes out. Both of them are so close. He also says that both of them are sleeping together. Lama has been with the Andrews family since 2007. My daughter and I were born in Peru. We respect the lamas very much because traditionally we have a very close relationship with the lamas. Key Straits adds that why she was 13 years old and grew up riding on Dalai’s back. Sammy Straits said she wants to be a veterinarian when she grows up.

The llama and gelato aren’t the only ones with the family. Straits and his family raise several animals, including guinea pigs, Navajo Churro goats, and chickens. Andrew Thomas also says that Sami’s childhood with these animals is why she wants to be a vet. In any case, the Straits family is waiting for the Guinness World Record for the world’s oldest llama. The Guinness Book of Records could not make it to the birthday celebration. However, the participants will be considered as witnesses. Moreover, the llama’s birth certificate is also required to be considered for Guinness World Records.