Alpacas are a South American relative of the camel. Closer relatives include the domesticated llama, and the wild guanaco and vicuna. 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 2.5 million years ago. It is believed that about 6,000 years ago alpacas were created through selective breeding which was heavily influenced by the vicuna. There are similarities in size, fiber, and teeth between the alpaca and the wild vicuna.

The estimated world wide population of alpacas is 3 million head. Better than 90% are still located in South America. Both Australia and the United States have begun to breed significant numbers of alpacas, but the national alpaca herd remains under 50,000 in both countries.

Alpacas generally live 15 to 20 years. They stand 32- 39 inches at the shoulder. At birth they weigh 10 - 17 pounds. An adult alpaca weighs 100 - 190 pounds.

Male alpacas reach sexual maturity at 2 1/2 to 3 years of age. Females are first bred at 16 - 20 months of age. Alpacas are induced ovulators and can be bred any time of the year. An average gestation of 335 days produces a single alpaca baby (cria) which is usually delivered from a standing position during daylight hours. Twinning is extremely rare and and twins seldom survive.

While hardy and generally disease resistant, yearly vaccinations, worming, and regular toe and occasional tooth care is recommended. Alpacas are shorn yearly to harvest their exquisite fleece, and for health and management purposes. In some areas a free choice mineral supplement may be necessary


Physical Facts:

Life span: About 18-20 years; average height: 3 feet at the
shoulder and 4.5 feet at the head.

Weight: Adult, 150-185 lbs. Baby, 16-20 lbs at birth.

Average gestation: 11 months.

Birth:

A baby is normally delivered without human assistance during morning daylight hours. Twinning is extremely rare. The babies
(called crias) are normally up and nursing within 90 minutes. They are weaned at 6 months.

Reproduction:

Females are first bred at 14-18 months of age. Alpacas are induced ovulators and can be bred at any time of the year.

Color:

Fiber colors range from a true non fading black to brilliant white with roans, pintos, browns, reds, fawns, rose grays, charcoal grays, and others.

Fiber Production:

The average production is about 4 lbs. per year per adult alpaca and sells (in a clean state) for about $3 to $6 per ounce. Shearing is recommended every 1-2 years depending on climate. Over 20 natural colors that would not have to be dyed.


Health:

Alpacas are very hardy, healthy, and easy to care for. In most cases you will only have your Vet out twice a year for shots and other maintenance procedures (depends on your area, ask your Vet).