What are alpacas?
Alpacas are herbivorous, fleeced animals that come in a wide variety of colours – from snowy white through to fawn and chocolate browns, to ash greys and midnight blacks. Alpacas are very friendly and docile animals, standing at an average height of just 3ft at their withers (the top of their shoulder). As social animals, they enjoy being part of a herd and should always be kept in groups of 3 or more.
What animals are alpacas related to?
Part of the Camelid family, alpacas are related to camels, vicuñas, guanacos and llamas.
What is the difference between alpacas and llamas?
Here are some pointers on how to easily tell the difference between alpacas and llamas. Alpacas are smaller in size, have smaller and more pointed ears (whereas llamas have large, banana-shaped ears) and have a smaller wedge shaped head (whereas llamas have elongated faces in comparison).
How many breeds of alpaca are there?
There are two different breeds of alpaca; Huacayas (the most popular, teddy bear looking breed) and Suri (not as common breed with a much longer fleece that looks like dreadlocks!).
Alpaca Origins
Originating from the mountain ranges in southern America, alpacas are very used to scaling heights and being exposed to extreme weather conditions, making them hardy animals who enjoy being outdoors. That being said, a field shelter serves to protect them from extreme rain and sun. They have been completely domesticated since their beginnings (around 6000 years ago), so you will not find alpacas in the wild!
Learn How To Look After Alpacas
If you wish to embark on the rewarding journey of alpaca keeping, whether as newcomers to the field or prospective owners, and you desire to possess the confidence and knowledge to maintain their optimal health, your search concludes here! Choose from the learning opportunities below, which have been crafted to provide you with a wealth of alpaca husbandry knowledge and understanding. This foundation will ensure a successful and fulfilling alpaca venture.