For Immediate Release: April 7, 2004.
Contact: Steven Hall BLM 970-244-3052
 

BLM to gather feral llamas from Escalante Canyon

MONTROSE— The Bureau of Land Management Uncompahgre Field Office is taking steps to remove a herd of 15 llamas in the Escalante Canyon area. The llamas were apparently abandoned on public land.

“The BLM plans to do everything we can to ensure the safety of the llamas during the removal process,” Uncompahgre Field Manager Barbara Sharrow said. “We will identify the owners, if possible, and if not try to find suitable homes for the llamas with the help of llama producers and rescue groups.”

The llamas were apparently abandoned a year ago on the mesa tops east of Escalante Canyon, located eight miles west of Delta. Since then, ranchers and recreationists in the area have reported encounters with the llama herd. The llamas will be removed for their own health and safety, and in accordance with BLM land use regulations.

The area the llamas now call home is permitted for sheep grazing. Llamas, not native to the area, may face dangers from predators as well as the challenging terrain and climate if left to fend for themselves. Over time, the herd could cause resource damage and compete with wildlife for forage.

The llama round-up should be complete by May 28. Once the llamas are gathered, they will be auctioned to help recover the costs of the round-up, as required by BLM regulations.

- BLM -