Dalai Lama is an iconic figure moving mountains in the realm of Buddhism and he has left a lasting impression on his followers. A llama with a name closely resembling the monk, Dalai Llama, has left its own mark as the king of the animal kingdom.
The llama was born in January 1996 with dark brown eyes and a peaceful life in a ranch in Albuquerque. A king is incomplete without his crown. After ringing in his 27th birthday, he has been awarded the Guinness World Record for the oldest living llama in human care.
Although the average life expectancy of a llama is 20 years, Dalai surpasses the usual statistics as he’s still living a good life at 27.
Based on the veterinarian statement, Dalai is at least 27 years and 1 day old, making him as the oldest of his species and beating the past recipient Ripper, by 108 days. It becomes more impressive when he alos broke another record as the oldest llama in captivity ever.
In his early life, Dalai used to live in the Dorsey Mansion Ranch in Raton, New Mexico, USA. He used to live with a family that used him in projects for the US-based youth organization network which stands for “Head, Heart, Hands and Health.” The program reaches kids in the U.S. to empower and coach children to reach their potential.
He eventually transitioned to the Straits household, a family that was happy to have him and give him the necessary care. After working in programs, he became a playmate for Thomas and Jill’s daughter, Samibah “Sami” Straits. Dalai fit well into the country lifestyle with the farm and surrounding mountains.
“Dalai has always been surefooted navigating mountainous terrain,” Thomas said.
“He was so proud when he put on the saddle,” Sami added.