Why Is a Baby Llama Called a Cria?

Q: What is a baby llama called?

A baby llama is called a cria. Llama crias are born standing up — they drop 2-3 feet to the ground

Q: What other animals are called crias?

Yes! 2 animals share the baby name "Cria": alpaca, llama.

The story behind the baby animal name “Cria” — its origin, meaning, and history.

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Baby Animal Names Editorial Team

·Updated 2025

Quick Answer

A baby llama is called a cria. The name "Cria" has been used for baby llamas for centuries.

The Origin of “Cria”

The baby animal name “Cria” for llamas has deep roots in the English language. Like many baby animal names, it evolved from practical usage — people who worked closely with animals needed specific terms to describe their young.

Baby animal names often come from Old English, Latin, French, or indigenous languages. They reflect how humans have interacted with and categorized animals throughout history.

Other Animals Called “Cria”

“Cria” isn't unique to llamas.2 animals share this baby name:

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Alpaca → Cria

Farm Animals

See all animals called “Cria” →

Fun Facts About Baby Llamas

•Llama crias are born standing up — they drop 2-3 feet to the ground
•They can stand and nurse within an hour of birth
•A cria weighs 20-35 pounds at birth
•Crias stay with their mother for about 6 months

Did You Know?

Baby llamas are called crias (Spanish for "baby") and are born during the day — almost never at night!

How to Pronounce “Cria”