Alpacas are not
used for food or food by-products in the USA. They are exclusively fiber animals.
The
shearing is typically done once a year in the spring.
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Alpaca
fiber is a natural fiber used predominately for clothing and home accessories.
*However, because of its natural flame resistance future uses could
include insulation, and protective clothing for first responders.
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The average
gestation time of the alpaca is 335 to 350 days and the average cria
(baby) weighs between 15 lbs. and 20 lbs.
Alpacas are
relatively small livestock animals - approximately 36" at the
withers and 120 lbs. to 200 lbs. as adults.
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Alpacas are
quiet animals. People who come to Shady Nook Alpacas
comment on what a quiet, calming, peaceful experience they've had.
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Alpacas have
communal "dung areas" making clean up easy with a rake or shovel and
a bucket.
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Alpacas are fully insurable and
are sold with reproductive guarantees.
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The price of the alpaca has
maintained and increased. The original importation was in 1984 and
the last import was in 1994. Since then, the borders have been
closed to alpaca transfers. The national alpaca herd in the U.S. now
numbers approximately 100,000 registered alpacas. There are about
4,000 alpacas farms in the United States.
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The alpaca industry has the
Alpaca Registry Inc. where each alpaca is registered according
to DNA. We are a strong, growing industry.
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Our national organization,
AOBA
(Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association) and our state
organization
VAOBA (Virginia Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association) offer
support in the form of shows, educational seminars, marketing aids,
networking and volunteer opportunities. Most states or regions have
their own organizations.
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The alpaca industry is a family
oriented business. Children enjoy training the alpacas and entering
the costume and showmanship competitions. Adults of all ages enjoy the shows and the business of
buying, breeding and selling the alpacas and the alpaca products.
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Ken & Lois Pocock