WHAT IS AN ALPACA?
Alpacas are members of the camelid family and are approximately one-half the size of a Llama. Their weight can vary from 60 to 100kgs and they measure 85 – 95cm tall at the withers (shoulder area). The lifespan of the alpaca is 18-24 years. They are induced (trigger) ovulators and gestation is 11.5 months. Newborns are called "cria", adult males "macho", females "hembra" and young alpacas "tuis"
They are curious, intelligent, individual, easy to handle and make delightful companions. Alpacas eat grasses and chew a cud. They don't have horns, hooves or claws. They require minimal fencing and are ideal for small acreage.
There are two types of alpaca – the Huacaya (Aimee in the photo below) and the stunning Suri (in the photo below - many thanks to Stephanie Froelich for permission to use this photo). A top quality Huacaya is characterised by a fine, soft, dense fleece. Soft and Fine work together hand in hand - the softer the "handle" (feel), the finer the micron. The finer the fleece, the more per kilo it will make. Huacaya yarn produces highly desirable knitware.
They are curious, intelligent, individual, easy to handle and make delightful companions. Alpacas eat grasses and chew a cud. They don't have horns, hooves or claws. They require minimal fencing and are ideal for small acreage.
There are two types of alpaca – the Huacaya (Aimee in the photo below) and the stunning Suri (in the photo below - many thanks to Stephanie Froelich for permission to use this photo). A top quality Huacaya is characterised by a fine, soft, dense fleece. Soft and Fine work together hand in hand - the softer the "handle" (feel), the finer the micron. The finer the fleece, the more per kilo it will make. Huacaya yarn produces highly desirable knitware.
Huacaya
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Suri
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As can be seen, the Suri is distinguished by its long silky fibre that moves freely but hangs in long, separate, distinctive pencil locks.The fibre has a wonderful silky feel, eye catching lustre and soft handle with exceptional drape.
We often describe alpaca fibre as "soft as cashmere, yet warmer (insulation)", "lighter and stronger than wool" and "luxurious, yet durable". The absence of lanolin not only avoids heavy scouring when cleaning the fleece but also makes it an excellent alternative for those who are sensitive to sheep's wool or allergic to lanolin.
What about the wonderful natural colours for all the spinners and weavers around the world? Alpaca fibre comes in more colors than any other fibre producing animal - approximately 22 basic colors with many variations and blends.
For further information about alpacas, please contact the WA Region of the Australian Alpaca Association.
For breeders interested in information on the SRS® Breeding System, please contact SRS® Alpacas International P/L
We often describe alpaca fibre as "soft as cashmere, yet warmer (insulation)", "lighter and stronger than wool" and "luxurious, yet durable". The absence of lanolin not only avoids heavy scouring when cleaning the fleece but also makes it an excellent alternative for those who are sensitive to sheep's wool or allergic to lanolin.
What about the wonderful natural colours for all the spinners and weavers around the world? Alpaca fibre comes in more colors than any other fibre producing animal - approximately 22 basic colors with many variations and blends.
For further information about alpacas, please contact the WA Region of the Australian Alpaca Association.
For breeders interested in information on the SRS® Breeding System, please contact SRS® Alpacas International P/L
