FAQ

Find the answers for the most frequently asked questions about alpacas below

What are alpacas and where do they come from?

Alpacas are domesticated South American camelids, closely related to llamas, vicuñas, and guanacos. They are native to the high Andes mountains of Peru, Bolivia, and Chile.

What are the different types of alpacas?

There are two types of alpacas: the Huacaya and the Suri. Huacayas have fluffy, teddy bear-like fleece, while Suris have long, silky dreadlocks.

What are some common uses for alpacas?

Alpacas are primarily raised for their soft, luxurious fleece, which is used to make clothing, blankets, and other textiles. They are also sometimes used as pack animals, and some people keep them as pets or for show.

What kind of care do alpacas require?

Alpacas are relatively low-maintenance animals, but they do require some special care. They need access to fresh water and grass or hay, as well as shelter from the sun and rain. They also need regular shearing, deworming, and vaccinations.

How long do Alpaca live?

Alpacas live for between 15 and 20 years. The Guinness Book of Records entry for the oldest Alpaca in captivity is for "Mananita" who was 24 years and 320 days old. She lived in Colorado, USA.

How big are Alpaca?

Alpacas stand about one metre at the withers(the highest part of the animals back). Cria, the young weigh about 6-8kg at birth. Adult females weigh between 45 - 70 kgs. males can be slightly more.

Do alpacas need special shelter?

Alpacas do need a field shelter. It should be large enough to accommodate all of the alpacas in the field, allowing them to stay out of the elements. Alpacas aren't known for their escapology skills and don't generally challenge fences, so a metre high fence should be enough. Make sure to remove any barbed wire, it is possible for their wool to get tangled and the alpaca trapped.

How do you breed alpacas?

Breeding alpacas is generally left to experienced breeders, as it can be complicated. Female alpacas are induced ovulators, meaning they only ovulate when they are bred. Gestation lasts approximately 11 months, and most breeders aim for a fall birth to take advantage of the cooler weather for the cria (baby alpaca).

What are some challenges associated with keeping alpacas?

One challenge of keeping alpacas is their susceptibility to certain health issues, such as parasites and dental problems. Another challenge can be finding a market for their fleece, as the demand for alpaca products can vary.

Are alpacas good investments?

As with any livestock, there are no guarantees when it comes to profitability. However, many people do see alpacas as a potentially lucrative investment due to their valuable fleece and relatively low maintenance requirements. It's important to do your research and carefully consider the costs and potential returns before investing in alpacas.

How much space do alpacas need?

Alpacas can be kept in relatively small spaces, as they don't require a lot of room to graze. However, they do need enough space to move around comfortably and exercise. As a general rule of thumb, one acre can support between 5 and 10 alpacas.

Can alpacas be trained?

Yes, alpacas can be trained to do a variety of tasks, including halter training for shows, pack training, and even obstacle courses. However, they are not as trainable as dogs or horses, and training should be done with patience and positive reinforcement.

Do alpacas spit?

Yes, alpacas can spit as a means of communication or defense. However, not all alpacas spit, and it's generally more common in males during mating season or when fighting with other males.

Can alpacas live with other animals?

Alpacas can coexist peacefully with other livestock, such as goats, sheep, and horses. They are also sometimes kept as guardians for other animals, as they will protect their herd from predators. However, it's important to introduce alpacas to other animals slowly and carefully to avoid any potential conflicts.