Discovery Alpacas: About Alpacas

Facts
Alpacas are herd animals and must be kept in a group of at least 2 although 3 would be more ideal in case of any problems arising and one having to be removed. The alpaca's average life span is around 15 to 20 years and they grow to around 1m (3ft) at the shoulder and 1.5m (5ft) at the head. They weigh between 50 - 80kg (110 - 176 lbs) when mature. Their feet are soft and padded making them very gentle on the pasture and do not suffer from foot rot. They are very clean and tidy, making fixed dung piles around the paddock which keeps parasite infestation low and cleaning of pastures much easier. The firm and dry pellet makes an excellent fertilizer. Alpacas often lay down for a while just chewing their cud, this is a ball of feed brought up from the stomach. Cud chewing is an essential part of the digestive process.

Breeding
Females can be bred from at around 14 - 16 months and males begin to work between 2 - 3 years old. They are induced ovulators so can be bred throughout the year, though summer births are preferred if possible. Their gestation period is around 11.5 months, where they generally have just the one cria which is usually born in daylight hours. The cria is usually ready for weaning at 5 - 6 months.

Housing
Alpacas require little space at around 6 to the acre (depending on the quality of pasture) and they rarely challenge fencing making a 4ft stock fence adequate. Although they are quite happy to live outside in any weather, some form of shelter is required to protect them from the worst storms and provide some shade in the summer.

Feeding
All alpacas require is grass, hay or hayledge and a small amount of hard feed (to ensure they are getting enough vitamins) and fresh water daily, making them very economical to keep.

Husbandry
Alpacas require little regular care other than occasional toe trimming, teeth checking and possible trimming and shearing annually. They also require six monthly vaccinations against Clostridial disease and worms.