Alpacas are one of four types of camelids native to South America. They are herd animals related to llamas, vicunas and guanacos. Alpacas have been domesticated for thousands of years, and are bred as livestock for their fleece just like sheep in countries around the world. Alpaca fleece is lighter, warmer, hypo-allergenic and more resilient than wool. Their shearing produces 5-10 lbs of fleece per animal per year. Our alpacas are shorn in the spring, and are pictured above in the field after shearing. Normally Suri fleece lays in long locks and moves in the wind when they run.

Alpacas are smaller, more docile and less protective than llamas, and are one half the size, usually weighing between 140-200 lbs when fully grown. They are quiet, graceful, curious and beautiful to watch as they graze and play on pasture.

Suri Alpacas are rare, making up only 10% of the total alpaca population. Suri fleece is naturally silky, smooth, cool to the touch, with high luster. Suri has a natural drape and sheen which makes it perfect for flowing luxury garments. The other type of alpaca is Huacaya, and Huacaya alpacas have a puffier teddy-bear appearance and crimpy wool similar to sheep. Fiber is classified in 16 colors in the United States.

Alpacas graze on pasture, and eat grass hay and alpaca feed pellets. They are easy to manage and train on halter and for transport. Alpacas rest and stay warm on the ground in a cush position, with their feet tucked under their bodies. Males are territorial and are usually kept separate from females. They enjoy wresting and challenging each other. Alpacas make little noise, they can hum or orgle occasionally to communicate with each other. When they are unhappy with each other or threatened they put their ears back and can spit like a camel. Alpacas have soft foot pads with two toes instead of hooves so are easier on pasture than other livestock with hooves. They have their teeth and toe nails trimmed at least annually.

Alpaca manure is fertile and easy to manage. The alpacas usually all poop in the same one or two communal dung piles, making collection and composting easier than with other animals.

An alpaca baby is called a cria. Alpaca gestation time is 11 months, and usually only one cria is born per year.