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Things You Need to Know...
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Alpacas are about 36" tall at the withers.
Alpacas weigh about 125-150 pounds as adults.
Alpacas have one baby after an 11 1/2 month gestation period.
Alpacas are modified ruminants - they have a stomach with 3 compartments.
Alpacas are induced ovulators.
Alpacas originated many millions of years ago on the plains of North America.
Alpacas are in the camelid family, as are llamas, camels, vicunas, and guanacos.
Alpacas came to the U.S. from Chile, Bolivia, and Peru in South America.
Alpacas have padded feet with 2 toes on each.
Alpacas come in 2 types - Huacaya and Suri.
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Alpaca fiber is comparable to cashmere.
Alpaca fiber is stronger and lighter than sheep wool of the same diameter or micron count.
Alpaca fiber has little or no lanolin.
Alpaca fiber is hypoallergenic.
Alpaca fiber is one of the most luxurious in the world.
Alpaca fiber is greatly used for clothing in Europe and the Far East.
Alpacas have been bred for fiber for over 6000 years - the llama is the work and pack animal.
Alpaca babies - crias- usually weigh between 12 and 20 pounds.
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Alpacas need good woven wire fencing with no spaces underneath for predators - dogs and coyotes - to sneak in.
Alpacas need woven wire on exterior gates to keep out those same predators.
Alpacas need a deep, well-ventilated shelter with fans for very hot, humid weather.
Alpacas need good timothy or orchard grass hay available year round.
Alpacas need pasture; 4-6 alpacas per acre avoids overgrazing and ruining your pastures.
Alpacas need specially formulated feed and mineral supplement.
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At ORE HILL FARM, we don't breed our females till they're about 2 years old and full-grown - no babies having babies!
At ORE HILL FARM, we breed only for spring babies to avoid severe heat during critical stages of pregnance and at birthing.
At ORE HILL FARM, we breed for good conformation and lovely fiber.
At ORE HILL FARM, we do not buy and resell animals - we are breeders, not dealers.
At ORE HILL FARM, we believe in the importance of sound nutrition to a healthy, problem-free herd.
At ORE HILL FARM, we will happily help you with all aspects of your alpaca adventure now and in the future!
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