What Is An Alpaca?

Alpacas are members of the camelid family along with llamas, vicunas, and even camels. Alpacas originated in the Andean mountain range of South America and have been imported into the United States over a period of the last 30 years. Vicunas are the smallest, alpacas are the next largest, then llamas. Within this group, camels are the largest. Alpacas are about three feet tall at the withers and weigh around 150 pounds full grown. Within the U.S., alpacas are rare and unusual enough to be considered exotic, although they are now officially considered livestock in the U.S. As a result, property and federal tax benefits apply to the ownership of alpacas.

There are two types of alpacas: huacayas and suris. We own both types of alpacas at Thousand Oaks Alpacas. Huacayas and suris differ in their body styles and fiber characteristics. Crossbreeding is not encouraged in the industry. Huacayas have a more compact body style and their fiber is more crimpy and similar to sheep's wool, without the oil. Suris have a more lanky look with longer necks and legs. Suri fiber hangs in locks and is physically more similar to hair. Suri fiber is widely known for its high luster or sheen.

Alpacas are easy to handle, even for children. They are friendly, curious, and entertaining. Once you spend a little time with them, you cannot help but fall in love with them.