About Alpacas

Although originally from South America, alpacas are ideally suited to life in Canada and can provide a wonderful, eco-friendly lifestyle. With their soft feet with two toes instead of hooves, they are gentle on the landscape, and nibble the tops of grass rather than pull it up from the roots. They are a modified ruminant with 3 stomachs which means they are able to very efficiently process their food, including most organic matter and weed seeds.

Alpacas are herd animals living in quiet companionship with friends in their herd community. Their curious nature and gentleness makes them ideal livestock for families. Our children are involved in all aspects of our daily farm life, helping with chores and feeding and showing animals.

There are two types or breeds of alpaca: Huacaya and Suri. The Huacaya, the most common alpaca breed, has crimped fleece and is fluffy in appearance. The Suri on the other hand has straight, lustrous, fine fleece.

Alpaca fibre comes in a wide spectrum of natural colour with 22 recognized colours, and infinate shades between, yet is also easily dyed and retains its natural luster. It is exceptionally soft due to its low scale relief making it ideal for wearing next to the skin. Alpaca is ideal for thermal regulation. Each individual fibre has a hollow core containing microscopic air pockets, its these air pockets which provide excellent insulation, holding in heat next to your body in cold weather, but also allow breath-ability keeping you cooler in warm weather, and will wick away moisture keeping you comfortable.

If you are interested in adding these amazing animals to your life, please contact us for a farm tour and discussion.