Alpacas were a cherished treasure of the ancient Incan civilization and played a central role in the Incan culture that was located on the high Andean Plateau and mountains of South America.
      Alpacas were first imported to the United States in 1984. Alpacas are now being successfully raised and enjoyed throughout North America and abroad. There are two types of alpacas - the Huacaya and the Suri. The lifespan of the alpaca is about 20 years and gestation is 11.5 months.
      Alpacas eat grasses and chew a cud. Adult alpacas are about 36" tall at the withers and generally weigh between 100 and 200 pounds. They are gentle and easy to handle. Alpacas don't have incisors, horns, hooves or claws. Clean-up is easy since alpacas deposit droppings in only a few places in the paddock. They require minimal fencing and can be pastured at 5 to 10 per acre.

     Alpacas produce one of the world's finest and most luxurious natural fibers. It is clipped from the animal without causing it injury. Soft as cashmere and warmer, lighter and stronger than wool, it comes in more colors than any other fiber producing animal (approximately 22 basic colors with many variations and blends).This cashmere-like fleece, once reserved for Incan royalty, is now enjoyed by spinners and weavers around the world.

Alpaca Behavior
     Alpacas are very herd-oriented animals and should be kept in groups of 3-4 individuals. They band together if frightened, so it is simple to move them as a group. The character of Alpacas is very gentle and loyal and that makes them good companions for children and wonderful therapy animals. They can be taught to perform simple tricks and to pull a cart.
     Alpacas communicate with each other with a variety of quiet noises and body language. The most common sound is a low soft humming. They recognize intruders and make alarm sounds. Baby Alpacas are very curious and sniff and touch everything.