Livestock farming was the most important activity after agriculture. The Incas mostly raised llamas and alpacas. Because they were sedentary, they created spaces reserved for livestock. The whole village participated in these tasks. It was also one of the main activities of men.

The llama and the alpaca

The llama and the alpaca were very important animals in the life of the Incas. They primarily raised these animals for wool, which was used to make most of their clothing. Their hides were used to make leather, sandals and bags. The bones were turned into needles, which were then used to weave clothes. The Incas also used llamas and alpacas for working the land and carrying goods. The Incas rarely ate the meat of the llama or alpaca. Instead, they raised guinea pigs and ducks for food.

Author: Alexandre Lanoix

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