History on Alpacas

Alpacas originated in South America and were generally kept in herds that grazed in the Andes Mountains in Peru.  Alpacas are the same species as camels and llamas.  There are two types of alpacas, the suri alpaca and huacaya alpaca.  The alpacas on our farm are huacayas, which have a rounder and more bulky appearance than a suri. 

Huacayas’ fiber grows perpendicular to the body, giving them denser, smoother curls and an almost sponge- like fiber. Alpacas have been specifically bred for their fiber and are not generally considered a work animal.  Their fiber is sheared once a year and can be transformed into many high quality goods, such as blankets, sweaters, hats, gloves, socks, bedding, and rugs.  There are more than 52 different colors classified in Peru and more than 16 in the United States.   Alpaca fiber has been compared to wool but is as soft as cashmere.  It is a silky natural fiber that, unlike wool, has no lanolin, which makes it hypoallergenic.  It also repels water and is flame resistant.  

Alpacas in South America are also used for meat.  The market in the United States for alpaca meat is growing.  It tastes very similar to beef and is said to be healthier for human consumption. Learn more about Alpaca Meat.

In 1984 the first alpacas made their way to the United States.  Tim and Jane Talbot’s alpacas (the original owners of the Grand Alpaca Company) were among the original 350 alpacas that were brought into North America.  In 1997 it was decided to close the borders so that no more alpacas could be imported into the U.S. in order to protect the investment for U.S. alpaca owners.  ​

Suri Alpaca

Huacaya Alpaca

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Why buy your alpacas from us?  We have more than 90 alpacas to choose from, learn more about what we have to offer at our Michigan alpaca farm.