About Alpacas
WHY RAISE ALPACAS?
Alpacas are quiet and gentle; you cannot help but relax and smile just being around them. They are a true lifestyle choice with many benefits and opportunities for the entire family to enjoy.
You could be an existing farmer or a want to be farmer or perhaps you are a professional looking for a lifestyle change. It is possible that you are a family wanting your children to experience life on the farm or perhaps you are retired looking for that extra income. Alpacas can meet all of the above requirements and add more to your life than you ever thought possible.
Since alpacas are gentle creatures and easy to train, they are perfect to have around children. There is nothing like attending an alpaca show and seeing the children showing and performing with their beloved alpacas.
The alpacas are sheared once a year. The fiber is processed into yarn and other high valued products. The alpaca fiber has many unique attributes that set it apart from any other fiber in the world. Their fiber is coveted by hand spinners and weavers; there are also many mills in the states that can process the fiber into yarn or any garments you might desire.
Alpacas do not require a lot of acreage or enormous housing. The size of your herd depends on your own personal preference. You can have a few alpacas or have a larger herd. Many owners board their alpacas at existing farms and still enjoy many of the tax investments of owning alpacas.
ALPACA FACTS!
Alpacas originated in South America.
Alpacas were mostly domesticated for the royal families.
Alpacas are raised for their luxurious fiber.
Alpacas eat grass and/or a grass/hay mixture.
Alpacas are herd animals and do not like living alone.
Alpacas can be raised with 5 per acre.
Alpacas are sheared once a year.
Alpacas live for 20 years or more.
Alpacas have one baby per year; gestation is 11 to 12 months.
Alpacas are great with kids and are a wonderful animal for the small farm.
Learn more about the Alpaca's history and care on your farm visits.