
Alpacas are the gentle cousin of the llama. The alpaca is one of the worlds oldest domesticated species approximately 5000 years ago and became a cherished treasure of the ancient Inca civilization. Their fine cashmere-like fleece was once reserved for Incan royalty. Alpacas come in variety of colors, including white, black, brown, gray, fawn and any combination of these colors. Alpacas are the only animal in the world that come in 22 natural colors, prized for its' unique silky feel and superb handle.
They have in general one offspring per Year ,their gestation period is 11 1/2 months.
They are very friendly and very curious animals, get along well with Dogs & cats .
That's why Fences have to be designed to keep out predators. ( It is a fact that more alpacas die as a result of dog attacks than any other cause ). A three-sided enclosure is adequate for shade, as well as winter wind protection. Alpacas require less than 2 pounds of good10-12% protein hay daily, mineral supplementation and fresh water. They require little pasture; approximately 6 animals per acre, making them an ideal small acreage livestock. They can be easily transported in a pick-up truck, van or trailer. They usually lie down in Transit.
Alpacas have common dung piles, it makes clean-up and parasite control a relatively easy job. Alpaca droppings are almost odorless, are low in nitrogen and make an excellent Soil enhancer.

