In a surprising twist, a small farm near Victoria Corners in Ontario has become the center of an extensive search effort after three pet llamas, Lluka, Llewis, and Todd, managed to escape their enclosure last Friday morning, (November 10, 2023).
The trio, who reside near the Blue Mountain Veterinary Clinic in Ontario, are the cherished pets of Samantha McKay, who has been their devoted caretaker since 2020.
Lluka, the first of the trio, joined McKay's life in 2020, sparking her love for these unique animals. Llewis and Todd were later added to the herd, with McKay nurturing dreams of launching a llama walking business. She also cares for two alpacas at a separate location.
The llamas' escapade began unexpectedly when McKay received a distressing call at work informing her of their disappearance. Despite immediate efforts, the llamas evaded capture and ventured into the surrounding areas, possibly a forest.
The incident swiftly transformed from a private concern to a community affair when McKay turned to Facebook to raise awareness. The response was overwhelming, with numerous locals volunteering to search for the llamas. This heartening display of community spirit reflects the area's tight-knit nature, as residents have come together, motivated purely by goodwill, to assist in the search.
Given their herd instinct and preference for grass, there is hope that the llamas have stayed together, which could increase their chances of being safe, although concerns about potential threats like coyotes remain.
McKay and the community continue their vigilant search, hoping for a safe return of the llamas. Anyone who spots the llamas is encouraged to contact McKay, but with caution, as these animals are known to be skittish.
McKay provided an update on Facebook on Wednesday November 15 saying the "Llamas are still not home."
McKay reports that on Friday she had almost rescued the llamas, "I was able to get the llamas to come to me by calling Llukas name. I almost had Lluka caught and haltered, however he saw the other Llamas walking in another direction and he instantly pulled away with 280lbs of force."
"With the help of the search and rescue team assisting me, a plan is being put in place to get these boys home. Updates will be provided as I know more. The outpouring of support means so much. Thank you," concluded McKay.
As of Thursday November 16th the llamas are still missing.
November 17 update: two of the three Llamas are home.
"I am excited to announce that we have secured two out of the three Llamas, Lluka and Todd," reports McKay on her Facebook page.
"Unfortunately, my boy Lewis is still out there on his own. With Lewis being on his own it is crucial that we get him home but I’m going to need more resources to do so. Being on his own, he is very vulnerable and now more than ever I need your help. Lewis was the leader and kept the other two safe during their adventure therefore he deserves our focus. Let’s get all these boys back together and let’s bring Lewis home."
November 20 update: Llewis is home and is safe!
"I want to thank the search team, the search coordinator, tracker team, drone team, the town of the blue mountains, the media, the professional cowboys and all the amazing volunteers for your time and commitment," says McKay on her Facebook page. "I also want to thank you the amazing community for your love and support during this time."