Alpacas are the smaller cousins to the llama. They are about 36" tall at the shoulders and weigh about 150 pounds. Alpacas originate from Chile, Peru and Bolivia. There are two types of breeds - the Suri and Huacaya. Huacayas are generally larger with more "crimpy" and dense fiber. Our farm has Huacayas.
Alpacas produce one of the world's finest and most luxurious natural fibers. It is clipped from the animal without causing it injury. This peaceful means of life for the animal was exactly why we chose alpacas for our acreage.
The fibre is soft like cashmere and warmer, lighter and stronger than wool, it comes in more colors than any other fiber producing animal (approximately 22 basic colors with many variations and blends). This cashmere-like fleece, once reserved for Incan royalty, is now enjoyed by spinners and weavers around the world.
Females have one cria (baby) per year with an average gestation of 11.5 months. Cria are normally born during daylight hours and weigh between 13 and 22 lbs. Cria are typically weaned at around 6 months. Lifespan in North America is estimated to be about 20 years. Most females will produce a cria a year throughout most of their life. Females can begin breeding between 18-24 months. Males can start breeding around 3 years old.
Alpacas eat 2 lbs of hay per day and 1 cup of supplement per day. They require very little space. One acre is suitable for 5 - 6 adult apacas. This makes them ideal for hobby farms and acreages.
They are very hardy and adapt well to most climates, elevations and conditions. A 3 sided shelter is ideal to keep them from the elements.
They are clean, intelligent animals which utilize common dung piles that make corral cleaning very easy. Their dung is virtually odorless and makes a great fertilizer.
Alpacas are quiet, peaceful animals that can be handled by anyone and are safe around children as well as other livestock and pets. They rarely spit at humans, unless nervous. They are very easy to transport in a pick-up, van or trailer, as they lay down while being transported.
They make soft humming sounds to communicate, which is very relaxing to hear at the end of a hectic day. Raising alpacas is a rewarding lifestyle that is a fun, relaxing source of income. Alpacas qualify as livestock so it may also offer tax advantages.
Alpacas truly are the investment that you can hug!
About the Fiber Production
What is an Alpaca?
How do you Care for an Alpaca?
Therapy in the Barnyard
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