What kind of space do alpacas require?
Alpacas are modified ruminants (with 3-chambered stomachs), so they are highly efficient grazers, much more so than almost any other livestock. Pasturing density of 6 to 9 alpacas per acre is often reasonable, though density varies greatly with condition of the land, climate, quality of forage, and fencing plans. Remember that if you plan to keep breeding stock, you’ll need several fenced pastures to accomodate groups of different sexes, and to allow for pasture rotation. Fencing is required, as for any livestock. The good news is that alpacas generally respect fencing. 4′ or 5′ no-climb horse fence is a commonly available and cost-effective choice that can be mounted to T-posts with occasional interspersed 4×4 posts to enclose a pasture.
