IsarAlpacas

Alpacas are South American camelids. Their home is Bolivia, Chile and Peru. They were domesticated more than 5,000 years ago by the ancestors of the Incas from wild-living vicuñas and guanacos. There are 2 subspecies of alpaca – Huacayas and Suris. Alpacas can live to between 20 and 25 years of age, reaching a height of 80 to 100 cm and a body weight of 50 to 75 kg.

Today, the alpaca is among the precious producers of noble fibres, with a world population of an estimated five million animals. In the highlands of the Andes, alpacas live under significantly harsher conditions than in Europe – they can easily withstand temperature fluctuations from -25 degrees at night to +18 degrees during the day. Nature has gifted them a unique fibre to help balance these extreme temperature differences. The alpaca is the only animal in the world whose fibre colours range across more than 22 natural shades – from white through various browns to grey and deep black. The often environmentally damaging dyeing of the fibre is therefore not necessarily required.

At the beginning of the warm season, alpacas must be shorn. They produce 2 to 3 kg of the sought-after luxury fibre, which is highly valued especially in the world of fashion and processed into exclusive garments. Traditional spinning with a spinning wheel is also being rediscovered by many, and alpaca wool is also very well suited as a filling for duvets due to its outstanding properties. Knitted and woven goods made from alpaca fibre are wonderfully light, warm and pleasant to wear against the skin.

Alpacas cannot be kept alone – they are herd animals that have only modest requirements. In addition to grazing land, they need shelter that is accessible at all times, protecting them from wet weather and strong sunlight. The animals feed year-round on hay and on grass in summer. Fresh water and minerals should always be available. Necessary care measures include annual vaccination, regular deworming, as well as the checking and trimming of toenails and teeth. The gestation period of alpacas averages 11.5 months.

Alpacas are fascinating and undemanding animals that are gaining more and more admirers across Europe. These noble fibre providers have now established themselves as a serious alternative segment in agriculture. Alpacas are also being used increasingly in animal-assisted therapy. Many an animal-loving owner of a large property uses these curious and friendly companions as living lawnmowers – or takes them out on leisurely walks.

Yes, alpacas do spit. However, this defensive behaviour primarily serves to establish the hierarchy within the herd and is only very rarely directed at people. Alpacas are very curious and quick-learning animals. Since 1996, alpacas have been recognised as agricultural livestock, meaning no specialist knowledge certificate is required to keep them. Breeders constantly strive for targeted pairings in order to ensure the good health of offspring, a correct body structure and a high-quality fleece.