A North Carolina-based llama distinguished by his endearing buck-tooth smile and gentle demeanor has set a new world record for longevity among his species. Whitetop, who is over 27 years and 250 days old, has earned the title of the oldest llama living in captivity, surpassing the previous record-holder, Dalai Llama, as confirmed by Guinness World Records last week. Dalai had held the title earlier this year after reaching the age of 27 at a ranch in Albuquerque.
Since his donation to Victory Junction in 2006, Whitetop has been a comforting presence at the camp, which was co-founded by the Petty family, well-known in the NASCAR community. The camp, located on an 84-acre site in Randleman, North Carolina, was established in memory of Adam Petty, the son of Kyle Petty, who tragically passed away in a race car accident at the age of 19. It offers a free year-round sanctuary for children with chronic health conditions, ranging from cancer to cerebral palsy.
Characterized by his serene and empathetic nature, Whitetop has become beloved by campers. He often lies still, allowing children to pet him, which not only comforts them but also provides valuable sensory experiences. Billie Davis, who oversees the camp’s barn, shares, “Whitetop has a knack for helping campers break out of their shells. Initially, his size might intimidate, but he quickly wins them over with his gentleness.”
Among Whitetop’s closest companions is Gus-Gus, a miniature highland cow known for his antics, such as playfully jumping on Whitetop, seemingly oblivious to his species difference. Whitetop also enjoys rolling in freshly laid wood chippings, munching on moist alfalfa, and perfecting poses for selfies. Davis notes that he has a distinct preference for certain angles, adding humor to his interaction with visitors.
The secret to Whitetop’s impressive lifespan can be attributed to comprehensive veterinary care, regular exercise, and a genuine love for his role at the camp. Such an extended life is unusual, as the average lifespan of a llama is around 15 years, as reported by the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance. Despite developing arthritis in recent years, Whitetop remains in good health and only shows displeasure when left alone without his companions like Gus-Gus or the miniature donkeys, Jed and Jethro.
Stephanie Wilkerson, who first visited the camp’s family weekend in 2006 following her diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes, reminisces about her initial apprehension towards Whitetop. Eventually, she discovered comfort in petting and hugging him. “The more I stroked him, the more at ease I felt,” shares Wilkerson, a resident of Thomasville, North Carolina.
In celebration of Whitetop’s milestone, Victory Junction is now selling limited edition T-shirts featuring Whitetop wearing sunglasses with the phrase, “Still Spit’n.” Proceeds from the sales support the camp’s operations. Davis humorously explains that contrary to popular belief, not all llamas spit, particularly Whitetop, who loves his job too much to be bothered by such behavior. “Llamas typically spit when they’re scared, uncomfortable, or feeling territorial, and none of these apply to him,” she concludes.
