Frequently Asked Questions:

What are they used for?

     They are used for breeding stock, fiber producers, pets, light pack animals, 

     therapy, and investments.

Are they intelligent?

     Alpacas are intelligent and easy to train.  In just 4-5 repetitions they will pick up and retain 

     many skills such as accepting a halter, being led, and loading in and out of a vehicle.

Do you eat them?

     In Peru, they do eat them.  Here in America, alpacas are prized for their soft luxurious fiber 

     and costs can range from $500 for a pet animal to tens of thousand of dollars for show quality.  

     That would be a very expensive burger!

Who do you sell their fiber to?

     Handspinners, yarn shops, and weavers are the major market for clean alpaca fiber.  

     They love all the various colors of alpaca.

What and how much do they eat?

     Alpacas are ruminants with three compartment stomachs.  They chew their cud like cattle 

     and sheep.  They are very efficient and only eat 2-3 bales of grass hay per month.  

     In most cases, they require mineral supplements (ask your Vet).

Where can they be raised?

     In almost any climate.  In very hot climates, yearly shearing is required along with misting 

     or sprinklers and shade.  In very cold climates, closed barns are recommended.  In most 

     climates, a 3-sided shelter is all that is required.

What is their personality like?

     Alpacas are very gentle and curious.  They are social animals and can be pleasantly 

     dependent on humans.  With a little training they become great pets.  Alpacas will 

     occasionally spit at each other when they are competing for food or trying to 

     establish their pecking order.  Alpacas will not spit at people unless they have been 

     abused by people.

What sounds do they make?

     Alpacas communicate with a series of ear and tail positions and 

     body postures as well as a humming sound and a shrill alarm call 

     when threatened by predators.

How much do they cost?

     Alpaca prices vary and depend on many factors. Among these are the animal's sex, 

     quality (conformation, fiber density, luster, etc.), and color.  Females will generally sell for 

     more than males, although herdsire quality males will demand the highest individual prices. 

     The current range for breeding females is between $10,000 and $40,000. Young, 

     unproven stud prospects will sell for between $7,500 and $25,000.  Pet quality animals 

     sell for $500-$1,500.

How can they be transported?

     They can be transported in vehicles such as a mini-van, full size van, small trailer, horse trailer, 

     or large truck depending on how many and how far you are transporting them.