What are alpacas?
The Alpaca, Llama, Vicuna and Guanaco are all members of the Camelid family originating from South America. Alpacas and Llamas are domesticated and are becoming more popular as an alternative form of livestock.
Alpacas are much smaller than llamas standing at approximately 1 metre tall at wither height. The Huacaya breed of alpaca is the most commonly kept as it produces a wonderful, high quality wool. There is also the Suri breed, which is less common and has long pencil like fibres that make up its coat.
Alpacas are herd animals and therefore it is essential they be kept in twos or more. Their average lifespan is 20 years.