Alpacas are wonderful livestock which have been domesticated for 6,000 years. Until very recently, the beautiful alpaca was unknown in the United States, with their countries of origin consisting of Peru, Chile, and Bolivia. Now these gentle, intelligent, fiber-producing creatures are enabling thousands of people to enjoy a new way of life.

What is an Alpaca?

Alpacas are closely related to llamas, though smaller, with a much finer fleece. Their remarkably lightweight and luxurious fiber is the most diversely colored natural wool of all domesticated animals and has incredible beauty, strength, and warmth. Once, this cashmere-like fleece was reserved for the clothing of Incan royalty. The end by-product of these animals is their fiber, which is sheared once a year.

There are two types of alpacas: the Huacaya, whose"bushy" fleece gives them a teddy-bear appearance; and the Suri,which have draping pencil-like locks. The Huacaya accounts for 90% of the world alpaca population.

Because these animals are still rare in the U.S. (first imported in 1984), many people are recognizing the opportunity to raise and breed these amazing creatures. It is the coveted offspring of these clean and easy-to-care-for alpacas which are generating incredible financial rewards.

Alpaca Management

Alpaca management is not complicated or difficult. They have lovable dispositions and are easily trained. Their principle food source is grass or hay, and a supplemental diet costs about the same per month as dog food. Alpacas are an ideal small acreage animal, because an acre can accommodate up to 7 animals. Their life span is 15 to 25 years and females can produce one offspring (called a cria) per year, through their late teens. An average adult weighs 150 pounds and stands 36 inches at the withers. Alpacas are easily adaptable to their environment and are presently raised in all 50 states.

Demand for alpacas in the U.S. and Canada is high, with the alpaca market very strong and maturing.