About Alpacas
Native to South America the alpaca is a member of the camelids family, cousin to the llama, guanaco and vicuna. Prized by the ancient Inca civilization for their spectacular fibre they have been domesticated for over 5000 years.
Alpacas offer the ultimate in lifestyle farming opportunities - whether you're a serious investor, keen enthusiast, or simply after a fantastic pet, alpacas offer a rewarding experience on a small acreage. Alpacas are very economical to manage and easy to handle. They are gentle, intelligent animals that are genuinely enjoyable to work with - you'll want to get out in the paddocks with them.
Becoming an alpaca investor means joining the development of a new fibre industry. Luxurious alpaca fleece, shorn once a year, is highly prized as one of the world’s finest natural fibres. Superbly soft, silky and incredibly light with a high tensile strength, it is ideal for quality fashion garments, blankets and knitwear. There is a growing niche market for this luxurious fibre both at the local level and on the international scene. Those who direct their efforts into breeding will receive top prices for quality animals and in the longer term, increasingly generous returns for alpaca fleece from a proven luxury fibre market.
From the rare coloured Suri to the world famous pure "Accoyo" alpaca, let us introduce you to the world of alpacas through our alpaca family at Valley of Peace.
What are the different types of alpaca?
There are two breeds of Alpaca, both available at Valley of Peace; the Huacaya (wak-eye-yuh) with short 'fluffy' fleece and the Suri (soo-ri) with its distinctive long 'penciled' fleece.
Do alpacas need a lot of looking after?
Other than shearing and the usual worming and vaccinations like a dog or cat, alpacas require very little else. An occasional trim of their toenails and teeth may be required. We can assist with your alpaca care and are only a phone call away for any queries.
How long do alpacas live?
Their lifespan is approximately 20 years. Females remain productive for most of their lives with pregnancy lasting about 11 and a half months.
Do alpacas need expensive extras?
A lean-to or similar shelter for protection against extremes of heat and cold is all they require. There's no need for special fencing as alpacas are generally content to stay in their own 'backyards'.
Alpacas spit don't they?
Yes, but not generally at people. Sometimes a female will spit at a male if she does not welcome his amorous attentions!
What kind of pasture do alpacas need?
Alpacas are ruminants - they chew cud like a cow. They do well on low protein hay or pasture provided it has a balanced mineral content. Supplementary feeding should be given in winter and to females in the later stages of pregnancy.
How do alpacas affect the land?
Alpacas have soft padded feet which are kind to the soil. They do less damage than hoofed animals. Alpacas don't overeat but are gentle browsers which allows rapid pasture recovery. Their dung makes excellent fertiliser and is dropped in areas where the animals avoid grazing making for easy paddock cleanup.Are alpacas difficult to manage? No - they are at ease with people and make wonderful pets. They have a gentle, curious nature, respond well to training and are easily handled by adults and children alike. They can be transported from place to place in anything from a horse float to a small van.
Does an alpaca birth mean a long cold night?
No - because alpacas usually give birth during the day. Birthing is generally trouble free and very quick. Crias (alpaca babies) average about 6 - 8 kilos and can often stand and nurse within one hour.