Huacaya and Suri
There are two different breeds of Alpacas. The suri alpaca has fiber that grows in long silky tendrils. Because
of its length and sleek texture, it is often used for fine-woven fabrics. The huacaya's fiber is fine and dense and
grows more outward from the body, creating a very round, woolly appearance. The huacaya fiber makes
beautiful yarn in all weights and textures, perfect for knitting, weaving and crocheting.
Habitat
Since their natural habitat is the Andes Mountains in South America, Alpacas are quite adaptable to extreme
temperatures of heat and cold and everything in between. Alpacas now flourish in all areas of the
United States from Alaska to Florida and many other parts of the world. They prefer to be outdoors
with "at will" shelter from heat, wind and rain. Blue skies and starry moonlit nights are their favorite cover.
Alpaca Care
Alpacas are relatively easy keepers, requiring pasture, clean grassy hay and fresh water. Specially formulated
alpaca food is also available depending on your animals' needs. They love to pick and nibble all day, which is
how their digestive system works best. Vitamin and mineral supplements assure desired intake—which is
especially important for lactating and pregnant females, as well as mating herd sires.
Alpaca Health
Alpacas are generally strong and hearty animals. Your alpacas will be at their best with a health care
regime of yearly vaccinations, regularly scheduled worming, teeth filing and toenail trimming. Work with your
veterinarian to come up with schedule based on your herd and environment. Alpacas are sheared once a year
in the spring, allowing them to have a short coat in the warmest months. As an owner, you can select
which of these tasks you would like to learn and do, and which tasks you are more comfortable turning
over to your veterinarian and professional shearer.
Getting to Know the Alpaca
Alpacas are proud, curious creatures. They will usually come up to say "hello," but most would prefer
to stay at an arm's length because they have minimal defense capabilities and need to trust you first.
If you have the good fortune to live or work with alpacas, you will gradually see their social structure emerge.
It is a privilege to observe their behavior as the seasons change and females get pregnant, moms
have babies, babies become independent and boys come of age. They truly communicate, care for
and protect each other. Alpacas are easy on your farm. Their padded feet cause minimal wear and tear
on your pastures, they don't chew or lean on your fences and they rarely damage anything. And because of their size and gentle nature, young children can join in
with farm chores. Many children go on to train and show alpacas in halter and performance classes.
Come for a visit and take home a Legend.