What is an Alpaca?
 Alpacas are members of the camelid family, being closely related to llamas (but half the size) and are native to South America, where they have been selectively bred for centuries. Prized for there fine fibre Alpacas can now be found in many parts of the world including the U.K.
Alpacas are quiet and gentle animals. They are naturally curious and can become friendly towards humans if they are regularly handled, especially when young. They are easily halter trained and need shearing annually.
Being a herd animal, alpacas shouldn’t be kept alone, and need the security and company of at least one other alpaca. They can be integrated into herds of other animals, and are sometimes used as guard animals against foxes. Alpacas are more than capable of coping with the British climate, but it is good practise to provide them with a field shelter.
With their curious natures and gentle, lovable characteristics alpacas are a joy to be around and it is easy to while away the hours in their company.
All of our alpacas are registered with the B.A.S. (British Alpaca Society), micro-chipped and fully vaccinated.
Alpaca wool
Alpaca wool is made from the natural fibre harvested from an alpaca.
Alpaca wool can be light or heavy weight, and this depends largley on the techniques used when it is spun. It is a soft, durable, luxurious and silky natural fibre.
Alpaca wool is similar to sheep’s wool, but it is warmer and has no lanolin which makes it hypoallergenic. Alpaca wool is also naturally water-repellent and it makes a naturally elastic yarn, perfect for knits. Alpaca wool is wonderfully luxurious as well.
The designer Armani has used alpaca wool to fashion suits. Alpaca wool is made into various products, from very simple and inexpensive garments to sophisticated, industrially made and expensive products such as suits. |
