| Alpacas are a member of the camelid family
that also include the llama, vicuna and guanaco, all natives of
the Andes Mountains countries of South America. Alpacas have
been domesticated for over 6,000 years. Alpacas were treasured
by the Incan Civilization for their luxurious, soft fleeces.
Alpaca fiber was so revered by the Incas that they clothed only
their royalty in alpaca garments. Today people all over the
world are enjoying alpacas and their heavenly fiber.
Alpacas are a small compact animal weighing 120-180 as
adults. Their size, intelligence and gentle nature makes working
with them very appealing for all ages and abilities. The
lifespan of an alpaca is 15-25 years.
Female alpacas are ready to breed at 15 to 24 months
depending on their size and readiness. Males are mature and able
to breed at 2-3 years of age. The female alpaca produces one “cria”
or baby per year after a gestation period of 11-12 months.
Alpacas are quite considerate as they generally deliver only in
the daytime and have quick problem free births. Crias usually
weigh 12-23 pounds at birth and stay with their moms until
weaning at 6-8 months.
Alpacas produce one of the world’s finest natural fibers in
more colors than any other animal. Alpaca fiber is known for its
warmth, durability, and softness. Alpaca fiber is relatively “prickle-free”
allowing those unable to wear wool, to enjoy alpaca garments.
Alpacas are shorn yearly to harvest their valuable fleeces.
Alpacas are a hardy adaptable animal. They are thriving in
countries all over the world as well as every state in the USA.
Alpacas are not loners. They need a herd, which can be as small
as two alpacas. Because they have an efficient ruminant system
they are easy, and affordable to feed. A large amount of acreage
is not mandatory for a small herd; however, alpacas do love
green grass! |
Alpacas in Alaska flourish
in our arctic environment. We have three sided shelters to offer
protection from the wind and weather. Heating the barn is not
necessary as the alpacas are shorn in May so they have time to
grow their own furry coats before the snow flies.
 Our
birthings are scheduled for the long days of summer June to
August. The alpacas enjoy up to 20 hours of daylight during this
season. They seem to appreciate the extra time to graze on our
lush green pastures and prong around the fields.
Conversely our winter days are much shorter. The alpacas are
not exposed to adequate daylight during this time so we
supplement with Vitamin D to prevent bone deformities. Some of
our alpacas seem to enjoy these winter months as a few have been
seen frolicking in the snow.
We feed second cutting hay, a grain supplement developed here
in Alaska, free choice minerals and lots of clean fresh water.
In the winter several of our alpacas meet us at the gate for
their warm “tea”. We spoil them on cold days by carrying
warm water to them. It isn’t necessary, but they love it so
much.
Alpacas are easy to raise, their fiber is a valuable
commodity, and the lifestyle is hard to beat! |
