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Alpacas are members of the camelid family, native to the Andes Mountains in South America . Beginning in 1984 they were first imported to the milder climates of the United States. There are two breeds of these engaging animals. Huacayas have dense and crimpy fleece, giving them a “teddy bear” appearance, while suris have longer and more penciled locks.

 

 

 
 

Behavior

  • Alpacas are intelligent and naturally inquisitive, easy to handle, and often bond with their caregivers, while exhibiting unique and individual behaviors.
  • Alpacas are clean and disease resistant, and they conveniently deposit their pellet-like manure in common dung piles.
Fleece and Fiber
  • Alpaca fleece (once reserved for Incan royalty) produces amazing fiber that is soft, fine, and oh so warm!
  • There are 22 internationally recognized colors of alpaca fiber.
  • Alpaca fleece is lanolin-free and can be spun directly off the animal.
  • Alpacas are shorn once a year yielding 5-10 pounds of fleece, enough for 4-8 warm sweaters.
Maintenance
  • Alpacas are grazing animals who require minimal shelter and supplements. They prefer to be in their pastures munching and humming than to be confined.
  • An acre can maintain 5-10 animals.
  • Alpacas require routine vaccinations and a worming regimen.

Alpaca Specifics

  • Gestation period is approximately 335 days.
  • Females are typically rebred within a month after delivering.
  • Young alpacas (cria) are weaned at 5-6 months of age.
  • Maiden females are often able to breed at 12 months of age, but waiting until 15-18 months may be preferable. Males become suitable for breeding between 2-3 years.
  • Average lifespan is 20 years.
  • Adult alpacas stand approximately 3 feet tall at the shoulder and weigh 125-175 pounds.
Investment
  • Alpacas provide an investment opportunity you can hug! Owning even a small herd of alpacas can yield an impressive financial return.
  • The demand for alpacas and their fiber is growing worldwide.
  • Alpacas are insurable, and potential profit and tax advantages are available to alpaca breeders

Resources

 

 
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