Llamas spit primarily as a form of communication and social behavior rather than just self-defense. They spit to protect themselves, establish dominance within the herd, warn others, or express annoyance. During mating season, males might spit at each other when competing for females, while females may spit to reject unwanted male advances. Spitting also serves as a way to keep order in the herd, settle disputes over food, or personal space. The spit is not just saliva; it includes partially digested food from their stomachs and can travel up to 10 meters (33 feet). Humans are rarely the target, but llamas may spit at people if they feel overloaded, mistreated, or threatened. Essentially, spitting is a llama's way of saying "respect my space" or asserting social hierarchy.
