Alpaca Information

A little bit about alpacas and some things we’ve learnt about looking after them.

Alpaca History

The Suri alpaca is a member of the camelid family; this includes the llama, Huacaya alpaca, the wild vicuna and guanaco, and also the camel. The alpaca is originally from the high Andean Plateau and mountains of South America. There are two types of alpaca: Suri and Huacaya (pronounced Wuh-ki-ya). Huacaya have fibre that appears fluffy, much like sheep's wool. Suri alpaca have long, silky fibre, which forms into locks much like dreadlocks. Less than 10% of the world's population of alpaca are Suri.

We are intrigued by the rich cultural history surrounding alpacas. The Incas bred an outstanding animal which had a finer and more consistent fleece than that seen in modern day alpacas. These genetics were almost completely lost as a consequence of the Spanish invasion in the 1500s, when up to 90% of alpaca were killed to be replaced by European livestock (sheep, goats and cattle) which the Spanish placed a higher value on. The alpacas and their herders retreated high into the Andean mountains to escape the conquistadors but the open style of the Suri fleece and clear part along the back line made them vulnerable to the tough conditions found at those higher altitudes.

The Suri alpaca, although it has genetic dominance over the Huacaya type, is not so common in South America hence the significance of new alpaca breeding nations like New Zealand. Most of the world's population of alpaca is found in South America but exports from South American countries are no longer permitted by their governments. Here at Shadow Wood we feel it is a great privilege to play a small part in restoring the wonderful Suri fleece to the level that the ancient Incas achieved generations ago. Alpaca fibre was considered the "fibre of the gods" by Incan Royalty, due to its luxurious feel. To the people of the Andes, the woven fabric from the fleece of the alpaca was so soft and beautiful that it was used as currency.

The Suri alpaca has unique fibre features that distinguish the Suri from the rest of the camelid family. Suri fibre has a cool, slick feel; soft as cashmere, warm like wool, and with the lustre of silk. Alpaca fibre is partially hollow, producing garments that are light-weight with excellent thermal properties. Finished items are strong, soft, and warm. Alpacas produce fleece in 22 natural colours and this broad range diminishes the need for artificial dyes and keeps the softness and integrity of the fibre. Employing selective breeding techniques, enhanced nutrition and animal care, alpaca breeders have made considerable advances with the quality of Suri bloodlines and the fibre they generate. And finally alpaca fibre is almost indestructible. Alpaca clothing and fabric has been discovered in remarkably good condition in Peruvian ruins dating back 2500 years!

Alpaca Care

Alpacas are intelligent, curious, gentle and serene. They are herd animals and form close and lasting relationships with each other and with us. Like many animals, alpacas have individual personalities and they prefer the companionship of their friends and their established community. The babies, called cria, love to race and play together – it's magical to watch. Alpacas can be raised relatively easily, compared to other livestock. Requiring little land – 5 to 7 per acre – they need shelter from extreme weather, reasonable pasture, clean water and sometimes small amounts of additional feed. They have soft padded feet which leave the pasture undamaged. They generally create communal "poop piles", making clean up easy.

Alpacas do not harm the environment and are not killed for their fibre products. Harsh or toxic chemicals are not necessary in the production of their natural fibre products. The daily routine includes observation, providing hay if required (particularly during the winter months), cleaning up, and feeding special alpaca pellets as needed (pellets containing zinc are fed to help prevent facial ezcema around much of NZ from January and April). And, of course, observing and spending time with these beautiful animals! Fleece shearing is done once a year, before the hotter weather begins. Often nails are trimmed and a vaccination is given at this time. Vet visits and worming are done as needed. Alpacas need extra vitamin D and this is given between 3-6 times a year, darker coloured alpacas seem to need the most. This is a good opportunity to get your hands on your alpaca and body score them. Good record keeping is important, it can be just a folder or a computer program like Alpaca Manager.

A word of advice, alpacas are very stoic animals so trust your instincts when you see one who seems to be behaving a little differently from usual. Generally, an alpaca will show very little sign that it’s unwell. It would not want to be seen as easy prey in the wild, it’s a natural survival instinct. What that means on your farm is careful observation is your best tool for keeping your alpacas healthy. If you seen one who is slow, lagging behind the herd or sitting more than usual please bring that alpaca into your yard for a closer look. If it has pale gums or inner eye lids, or you are concerned in any way, just call your vet. As your experience grows you will begin to make judgement calls but that knowledge builds slowly so always trust your instincts and call the vet for any alpaca you are worried about.