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WHAT IS AN ALPACA?
The alpaca is a domesticated member of the camelid family, and a cousin of the llama. They come from the high plains of the Andes Mountains in South America. Since approximately 1984, alpacas have flourished on farms throughout the United States. Alpacas have been used for centuries for their fine luxurious, cashmere-like fleece. There are two types of alpacas: huacaya and suri. The Huacaya's fleece has a wavy quality, or crimp, that enhances its use in spinning. The Suri has a lustrous fine fiber that has no crimp, but grows in very defined pencil-like locks. An adult alpaca stands about 3 feet tall at the shoulders and can weigh between 100 - 150 pounds. |
WHY WOULD I WANT ONE? There are two good reason to want an alpaca. They are profitable and enjoyable. Due to a high demand for these beautiful animals and limited supply, returns of up to 70% are enjoyed by many breeders. The Alpaca fleece is also in high demand by textile industries worldwide. Garments made from alpaca fiber are known throughout the world for being soft, warm and durable, light weight and lustrous. Alpacas also have a very lovable dispositions and manageable size. Alpacas make wonderful companion animals. They are easily trained and are gentle enough to be handled by children. |
HOW MANY ACRES DO I NEED TO START RAISING ALPACAS? On most pastures, you can raise as many as 6 to 10 alpacas on just one acre of land. They eat very little grass and therefore require only a small amount of acreage per animal. Pellets or grass hay may be used to supplement the alpacas. |
WHAT SHELTER AND FENCING DO ALPACAS REQUIRE? Alpacas prefer to be outside, however they do require shade from the hot sun and protection from the cold winter winds. A small enclosed barn is usually necessary for moms and babies during the winter months. A very simple and inexpensive fence is usually all you need, since alpacas love to graze and usually do not challange fencing. Depending on were you live, the quality of fencing needed should be determined more for keeping predators out. |
WHAT CARE IS INVOLVED IN RAISING AN ALPACA? Alpaca management is relatively uncomplicated. They require mostly fresh grass and water to eat. Alpacas prefer grazing in an open pasture as opposed to confinement in a barn or stall. Occasional grooming, trimming of toenails and teeth, annual shearing, and regular worming and vaccinations are just about all the care they need. |
WHAT ABOUT THE FLEECE? Most breeders shear their alpacas annually. Alpacas are usually sheared with electric sheering equipment, however some breeders prefer hand shearing because of the density of the fiber. An annual yield of fiber is approximately six pounds from a female and more than ten pounds from a male. The first clipping from a young alpaca is very valuable, as it is very fine and has a lustrous feel. There are approximately 22 shades of alpaca fiber and it can be made into many different garments. It is easily dyed and may be blended with other natural fibers including sheep's wool, mohair, angora, silk and llama. |
WHAT DO ALPACA USUALLY COST? Alpacas are valuable for many reasons. There are not very many of them to begin with and the U.S. has stopped importations. Females only have one baby a year and many breeders are building their herds, instead of selling. Alpacas are in such high demand that a high-quality female can range between $10,000.00 and $20,000.00. A high-quality, superior male can price out at over $50,000.00. Breeding-quality males and females vary in price. Breeding quality females can start at $8,000.00 to $10,000.00 and go up rapidely as quality increases. Yearling Females can start at $5,000.00 and the price can increase rapidely as their breeding age increases. Fiber-quality animals usually sell for between $1,000.00 and $2,500.00 dollars. |
WHAT ARE THE ALPACA QUICK FACTS?
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HOW DO I GET STARTED? The AlpacaOne staff is happy to assist customers with training and support. Still have questions? Please feel free to contact us by phone or e-mail: farm@alpacaone.com |
