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Meet the Alpacas
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About Alpacas
There are two types of alpaca. One is called the Huacaya, and the other Suri. The Huacaya represents more than 90% of the alpaca population, whereas the Suri accounts for less than 10%.
The Huacaya is characterized by a crimpy fiber with a dense fleece.
The Suri, on the other hand has long wavy strands, like dreadlocks. The Suri is less adaptable to harsh climates because although the fiber is longer, the falling style of the fiber offers less insulation than that of the Huacaya. In addition, the suri fleece parts along the spine, thereby exposing the spine to the cold.
Alpacas are not an endangered species.
What are some physical facts about alpacas?
| Life span: | 15-20 years |
| Height: | 34″-38″ at the shoulder |
| Weight: | 110-160 pounds |
| Gestation: | 341 days (average) |
| Birth: | Usually born in daylight hours |
| Birth weight: | 14-19 pounds |
Twins are rare, crias are usually up and nursing in 60 minutes, and are weaned at about six months.
Why do people like alpacas?
They are beautiful and fun to watch. They are intelligent and gentle and graceful. They are clean, quiet, mostly odor-free and by far the easiest to care for of all domestic livestock. And they are valuable.
