National Park Service: Llamas Allowed in Parks; Sheep and Goats Still Out

In other Denali National Park happenings, good news for llama enthusiasts.  Last year, a number of livestock animals were banned from the park.  Goats, sheep, bovids, and llamas were all barred due to concerns for the health of the wild sheep population.  Biologists feared that a bacteria present in livestock could cause pneumonia when introduced to wild Dall Sheep.  The story came to light after a man was cited for walking his pet goat inside Denali National Park last July.

Last week, the park released a compendium of regulations that will take effect on April 1st.  Among them is the easing of the llama ban.  The National Park Service says it heard from numerous groups around the country that support the use of llamas as backcountry pack animals.  The Park Service also acknowledges that there is not a documented case of disease passing from a llama to wild sheep.  Goats and sheep remain banned.  Before you pack your llama and head into the hills, however, you will need a permit from the park superintendent.