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 Alpacas on the Farm


Q: What are they used for?

A: They are used for breeding stock, fiber producers, pets, light
pack animals, therapy, and investments.
Q: Are they intelligent?

A: Alpacas are intelligent and easy to train. In just 4-5 repetitions they will pick up and retain many skills such as accepting a halter, being led, and loading in and out of a vehicle.
Q: What and how much do they eat?

A: Alpacas are ruminants with three compartment stomachs. They chew their cud like cattle and sheep. They are very efficient and only eat 2-3 bales of grass hay per month. In most cases, they require mineral supplements (ask your Vet).
Q: Who do you sell their fiber to?

A: Handspinners, yarn shops, and weavers are the major market for clean alpaca fiber. They love all the various colors of alpaca.
Q: Where can they be raised?

A: In almost any climate. In very hot climates, yearly shearing is required along with misting or sprinklers and shade. In very cold
climates, closed barns are recommended. In most climates, a 3-sided shelter is all that is required.
Q: What is their personality like?

A: Alpacas are very gentle and curious. They are social animals and can be pleasantly dependent on humans. With a little training
they become great pets. Alpacas will occasionally spit at each other when they are competing for food or trying to establish
their pecking order. Alpacas will not spit at people unless they have been abused by people.
Q: What sounds do they make?

A: Alpacas communicate with a series of ear and tail positions and body postures as well as a humming sound and a shrill alarm call when threatened by predators.
Q: How much do they cost?

A: Pet or fiber males begin at $1,000 with stud quality males beginning at $4,000 and many selling for
$10,000 or more. Weanling females begin at $13,000 and bred females at $16,000.
Q: How can they be transported?

A: They can be transported in a small station wagon  for short trips of an hour or so. They require larger
vehicles such as a mini-van, full size van, small trailer, horse trailer, or large truck depending on how many and how far you are
transporting them.