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The cradle of llama domestication is the Andean puna (elevation 4000–4900 m), probably around Lake Titicaca, at approximately 5000–4000 BCE. Alpaca domestication probably occurred elsewhere, perhaps near Telarmachay. Alpaca‐type incisors have been found in middens at Telarmachay, dated at 4000–3500 BCE. [8, 31, 32]. Once domesticated, llama and alpaca herding economies spread beyond the limits of the puna and became important in the economy of the Andean people from sea level to high mountain elevations [32, 33].

The Inca empire was dependent upon the llama and alpaca for food, fuel, clothing, transport of goods (the wheel was not introduced to South America before the conquest), and religious ceremonies. All SACs were the property of the government, and production of domestic species was rigidly controlled. The maximum numbers and broadest distribution of SACs developed under Inca rule. After the Spanish invasion of 1532, and the introduction of European breeds of livestock, numbers and distribution of SACs declined. Invaders did not recognize the unique adaptations of these species for this environment and considered them an unimportant component of the life of this region. However, llamas and alpacas survived because they are essential to Andean culture. Only in the last several decades have these animals been recognized as a valuable resource and efforts made to research their unique physiology and adaptation to hostile environments. They are the most reliable source of food, fiber, and fuel in the high, cool Andean environment. SAC ownership is the primary source of wealth for indigenous people [8, 32]. Currently, llamas and alpacas are raised by traditional pastoralists. Additional historical information is found in earlier editions of this text.

In the nineteenth century, SACs were exported to other countries from South America as zoo animals. Peru enacted legislation in 1843 prohibiting the export of live alpacas. Approximately 90 years ago, all of the Andean countries banded together to prevent exploitation of SACs by other countries. No legal exportations occurred from then until the 1980s, when the ban was lifted from alpacas and llamas [17, 34].

North American llamas have expanded from the small population imported from South America prior to 1930 and a few animals that had been imported from other countries. Current numbers of North American llamas are estimated to be between 100 000 and 120 000, and alpacas are thought to number more than 150 000 [35]. Sporadic importation of llamas and alpacas from Chile into the United States began in 1984 after the U.S. government periodically recognized Chile as free of foot‐and‐mouth disease. Importations have also originated in Bolivia and Peru, but these must meet special quarantine protocols for animals deriving from countries where foot‐and‐mouth disease is endemic. A few animals have been imported by England, New Zealand, Canada, and Australia.