Who raises alpacas?
The types of people that are Alpaca breeders vary from doctors, lawyers, business people, and cattle farmers, to name a few. Some Alpaca owners and breeders raise Alpacas as a full-time business while others only commit part-time. Alpaca breeders cover an array of people from young families to empty-nesters, people looking forward to retirement to full-time retirees. No matter where you live, you too can become an Alpaca breeder. Urban dwellers can board, or agist, at nearby farms/ranches so they can enjoy the benefits of ownership. Even though being an Alpaca owner and breeder offers a very attractive business and farming opportunity, people also raise these animals for companionship and to better their lifestyle.
• Two kinds of Alpacas: Huacaya (pronounced wah-KI-ya) and Suri (pronounced surrey) • Huacaya fiber is short, dense, crimpy and gives a woolly appearance • Suri fiber is silky and resembles pencil-like locks • Short and low set tail • Have soft padded feet with two toes • Do not have horns, hooves or claws, incisors, or upper teeth • Eat grass and chew cud • Adult alpacas generally weigh between 150 and 200 lbs.
The alpaca lifestyle suits many kinds of people. Many plan to raise alpacas in retirement because they are easily handled and a good source of income. Traditional farmers can diversify by adding alpacas to their farming repertoire. Alpacas are well suited to small acreage as you can pasture 7-9 alpacas per acre. Since alpacas are gentle and friendly (and love children), they are perfect for families. Our alpaca herd teaches our children lessons about responsibility, agriculture, and ecology to name a few. Also, there are many alpaca shows and events around the country each year that provide breeders with fun opportunities to get together with fellow alpaca enthusiasts. Alpaca farmers really come from all walks of life.
Alpaca owners and breeders come from all walks of life. Many are doctors, financial advisors, educators, or cattle farmers, to name a few. Some raise alpacas as a full-time business, others commit part-time. From young families to empty-nesters, phased retirement to full-retirement, raising alpacas offers countless options for everyone.
