About Alpacas

Alpacas are from South America (Peru, Bolivia, and Chile).
There are two types of alpacas - Huacaya and Suri. They are distinguished by their fleece characteristics.
Alpacas come in 22 natural colors. Making their fleece the most naturally colorful fiber available.
Alpacas are relatives of the camel, llama, guanaco, and vicuna.
Alpacas have been in existence for over 6,000 years.
Alpacas are raised for their valuable fiber.
The estimated world wide population of alpacas is 3.5 million.
Alpacas live about 15 to 20 years.
Alpaca are about 32-39" at the withers and weigh 100 - 190 pounds.
The average gestation of 335 days (11 months!) produces a single alpaca baby (cria)
Crias weigh between 10-17 pounds at birth.
Crias can walk about 15 minutes after birth.
Alpacas usually have only one cria per birth. Twins are very rare.
Minimal maintenance such as vaccinations, worming, and regular toe and occasional tooth care is necessary.
Alpacas are shorn once a year.
Alpacas can be transported in a minivan.
Alpacas do not normally spit at people.
Alpacas eat pasture grass, grain, and minerals.
Alpacas hum to communicate.
Alpacas are earth-friendly and do not destroy pastureland.