Alpacas are a domesticated member of the camel family, also known as camelids.
The camelid family also includes llamas, guanacos and vicunas from South America, and Bactrian and Dromedary camels from Asia and Africa.

This family of animals originated on the plains of North America about 10 million years ago. A common ancestor to the South American camelids migrated to South America about 3 million years ago.

Two wild species, vicunas and guanacos emerged. These animals still live in the Andean mountains.

It is believed that about 6,000 years ago, alpacas were created through selective breeding which was heavily influenced by the vicuna. There are many physical similarities between the alpaca and vicuna.

Today, there are about 3.5 million alpacas in the Andean mountains, most of which can be found in Peru. Since the first importation into the US in 1984, the North American herd has increased from a few alpacas in zoos to more than 60,000. Alpacas are popular for their luxurious fiber and as pet, show and investment animals in the United Sates, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, England and France. Other countries such as China have begun importing alpacas as well.

Physical Facts

Life Span: 15-20 years
Average Height: 32”-39” at the shoulder
Birth Weight: 10-17 lbs
Adult Weight: 100-190 lbs

Reproduction Facts

Male alpacas reach sexual maturity at about 24-30 months of age. Sexually mature males with desirable genetic traits are referred to as Herd Sires. Females reach sexual maturity and are first bred at 12-20 months of age. Females which have not been successfully bred and birthed are referred to as Maidens while a female with a history of successful reproduction (dam) is referred to as Proven.

Alpacas do not have a heat (estrus) cycle and can be bred any time of the year. An average gestation of 335 days produces a single baby (cria) which is usually delivered from a standing position during daylight hours. Twins are extremely rare and generally not viable.

Health Facts

While alpacas are generally hardy and disease resistant, basic care such as yearly vaccinations, worming, toe and occasional dental care are recommended. Alpacas are shorn every 12 to 18 months to harvest their exquisite fleece (also called fiber).

Breed, Fiber and Color Facts

There are two types or breeds of alpaca: Huacaya and Suri which are differentiated by the characteristics of their fleece or fiber. Both fleeces are soft and free of coarse hair. Ninety-five percent of alpacas are huacaya, with full, puffy fleeces whose crimp or crinkle is found throughout their fleeces.

The lustrous, straight fiber of the suri fleece hangs down in “dreadlocks” giving the suri alpaca an entirely different appearance. Fibers of both types are considered luxury fibers in the textile trade because of their unique qualities.

Yearling alpacas provide the finest fleeces. Depending on its weight, quality and cleanliness, an alpaca fleece commands $150-$400. There are eight basic colors: white, fawn, light brown, dark brown, black, gray and piebald or multicolor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Alpacas Used For?

Alpacas are fiber bearing animals and as such are shorn for their valuable fleeces. They are compact and gentle temperaments make them easy to manage. Alpacas can easily learn to lead, jump in and out of vehicles, kush (sit down), and obey other simple commands. They are very popular show animals and retain high economic value due to their scarcity. No other fiber producing animal has such an enormous variety of colors which makes the alpaca highly desired by the textile industry.

Unlike the U.S., the alpaca is also a source of meat for the Andean people of South America.

What Do Alpacas Eat?

Alpacas are modified ruminants. They rank high in digestive efficiency and do very well on good quality forages and hay. Occasional supplemental feeds, vitamins and minerals are provided when required. An alpaca costs far less to feed than most domesticated animals.

What Is Their Personality Like?

Alpacas are alert, curious, calm and predictable. They are herd animals and as such require the company of other alpacas. Most alpacas are extremely gentle and non-aggressive toward humans.

How Do They Communicate?

Alpacas express themselves with a soft hum and with body language, such as neck posturing, ear and tail positioning, and head tilt. They have excellent eyesight and hearing, and will alert the herd and their human handlers with a staccato alarm call of perceived danger. Alpacas will spit to communicate dominance within the herd. But, will rarely spit at humans unless frightened or abused.

Are They Registered?

About 95% of North American alpacas are registered with the Alpaca Registry (ARI). DNA technology verifies an alpaca’s lineage.

How Much Do They Cost?

Costs vary throughout the United States and Canada. For the past decade, the price for females averaged $19,000 to $25,000. Pet quality males can range from $500 to $2,500 while elite herdsires have sold for as much as $750,000.

As in other markets, alpaca prices are influenced by supply and demand, and macro-economic conditions.

For more information on alpacas, breeding, pricing and service, contact us.