Extinct Large-headed Llama (Hemiauchenia macrocephalus) Fact Sheet: Behavior & Ecology

Since direct observation of a fossil animal's behavior isn't possible, paleontologists use comparison and contrast with living animals for guidance. Tracks can sometimes reveal further clues to behavior. At a fossil site, the mix of plant and animal species gives clues to the ecosystem of that time and place.

Social groups

• Not known, but may have been similar to modern camels that live in small family groups of 2-20 individuals.
• One report of three adults and a juvenile that fell in the same event into an entrance fissure of a New Mexico cave. (Harris 2007)
  • Perhaps this group represented a small herd.

• Several species of camels co-existed with Hemiauchenia, each most likely feeding in different places or on different plants. (Webb 2006)

• Like modern camels, highly adapted for a running lifestyle
  • Long slender limbs with a long stride.
• Hemiauchenia probably had the running pace gait unique to modern camels (Janis et al 2002)
  • This is suggested by this camel's feet which are like those of modern camels (Janis et al 2002)

Janis et al. (2002)
Webb (2006)