An Introduction to Alpacas

•There are two types of alpacas, Huacaya (fuzzy teddy bear appearance) and Suri (smooth, silky, shiny fiber locks).

•They are friendly and curious creatures.

•Alpacas are intelligent animals that are easy to train.

•Alpacas are herd animals, therefore more than one is needed.

•Alpacas can be purchased to be bred, used for their fiber, and they make great pets.

•The alpaca's feet are padded and they leave even the most delicate terrain undamaged as it grazes.

•The alpaca has a three-compartment stomach. It converts grass and hay to energy very efficiently, eating less than other farm animals.

•The alpaca diet consists mainly of grass along with a feed supplement.

•Alpacas do need an ample supply of fresh water.

•Alpacas use a communal dung pile.

•The dung is low in nitrogen, making it useful as a rich fertilizer for plants and vegetables.

•Alpacas usually do not spit at humans unless frightened or hurt.  They do frequently spit at each other.  Alpacas may also kick.

•An average of 5-8 alpacas can be kept per acre.

•Good fencing is needed to protect the alpacas from predators.

•Shelter is needed, with the minimum being a 3-sided building. 

•Alpacas only have teeth on the bottom of their mouth, so they cannot bite you.

•Toenails need to be trimmed.

•Alpacas do not require grooming.

•Alpacas do need to be wormed and vaccinated.

•Alpacas must be sheared once a year.

•Alpacas are small and easy to handle.

•Alpacas can be insured against loss.