PUBLIC HEALTH INFORMATION NEWS RELEASE FROM DR. JEREMY DEATON
Cherokee County Animal Control and other local officials have been made aware that there is a feral or wild llama running loose in the Northwood and Powell Drive area in Centre. The animal has also been spotted grazing around Floyd Cherokee Medical Center. The animal has apparently escaped from an enclosure and has been running loose in the area.
Dr. Deaton, consulting Veterinarian for Animal Control, encourages citizens to be aware when driving as this animal can pose a serious risk to motorists if they were to strike it, as an adult llama can weigh upwards of 500 pounds. Llamas have also been shown to carry and transmit the Rabies virus, so it is important if you see the animal that you DO NOT attempt to feed it or pet it. The llama does not appear to be vicious; it just doesn’t want to be captured.
Local authorities are attempting to humanely dart the animal and re-locate it to another area. If you see the llama, call Cherokee County Animal Control at (256) 266-1390.
