ABOUT ALPACAS

Alpacas are members of the camelid family, which also includes llamas, guanacos and vicunas. They are natives of the South American Andean mountain region, including Bolivia, Chile and Peru. There are two types of alpacas, the Huacaya and Suri. The Huacaya alpaca has wooly fiber that stands away from its body, making them resemble a teddy bear. The Suri alpaca has long lustrous fiber that hangs parallel to their body in locks.

The alpacas lifespan is about 15 - 20 years. They grow to a height of 34 - 38" at the withers and weigh between 110 - 175 lbs. Females have a single baby per year, called a "cria", which weighs 15 - 20 lbs. Average gestation is about 341 days. Alpacas are induced ovulators, so they may be bred at any time of year. Alpaca females usually give birth during the day and are excellent moms. Female alpacas reach sexual maturity between 2.5 - 3 years.

Alpacas are very easy to care for. They are gentle grazers with a spit top lip and only bottom teeth, so they trim pastures without pulling out roots. Alpacas are very hardy and adapt to most climate conditions. They are most content to stay outside, however some sort of shelter (3-sided sheds are fine) is needed to protect them from the elements. Fencing should be adequate to keep predators out as alpacas do not challenge fences.

Alpacas need regular worming and vaccinations to keep them healthy. Nails and teeth need to be trimmed occasionally and shearing is done once a year, usually in spring before it gets too hot. In addition to good pasture, alpacas need soft hay, water, and vitamins & minerals. Small amounts of pelleted feed may be given once or twice daily to assure adequate mineral intake. Alpacas will very rarely overeat and they use a community dung pile which makes clean-up fast and easy.

Alpacas are very curious and intelligent animals. They are docile and easy going and get along very well with children. They are easily halter trained and can make good pets. They do not spit at humans but will spit at one another during feeding time or when a buddy is in their personal space.