What facilities are required for alpacas?
This varies widely, depending on such things as weather and predators. But as a general rule, the alpacas do need at least a three-sided, open shelter where they can escape inclement weather. And if predators are present in your neighborhood, then a minimum of five-foot-high, 2″ by 4″ no-climb fencing is necessary to keep out the predators. Traditional horse fencing (with 4″ by 4″ openings) is not recommended, as curious alpacas might be physically harmed if they put their heads through that type of fencing. Alpacas are ideal small acreage livestock. Six to eight alpacas can be kept on an acre of grassy pasture. Since cleaner pastures will mean cleaner and therefore more valuable fleeces, alpacas should be kept on well drained pasture which is free of debris and nuisance plants. Pastures should also be checked for the presence of plants which will be poisonous if eaten. Local agricultural agents can usually be of assistance in the identification of such plants. Alpacas will also apprec
Alpacas are ideal small acreage livestock. Six to eight alpacas can be kept on an acre of grassy pasture. Since cleaner pastures will mean cleaner, and therefore more valuable, fleeces, alpacas should be kept on well drained pasture which is free of debris and nuisance plants. Pastures should also be checked for the presence of plants which will be poisonous if eaten. Local agricultural agents can usually be of assistance in the identification of such plants. Alpacas will also appreciate a dusty/sandy spot for rolling somewhere in their pasture or living area. They should have basic shelter available all year. In moderate climates, a three sided shed is adequate. Where winter temperatures are more severe a simple barn or pole building may be advisable. When temperatures and humidity go up in summer, some type of shade is essential. Our alpacas appreciate having access to a shelter with electric fans to cool them and to control pesky insects. Huacaya alpacas seem to be very cold hardy w
Alpacas require a safe enclosure that will protect them from local predators. Usually a 5-foot fence with 2″ X 4″ mesh will help protect them. Do not use fencing with 4″ X 4″ openings as alpacas may stick their heads through the openings and become stuck. Two to eight alpacas can comfortably live on one acre. Alpacas are suseptable to parasites, so ideal facilities will include additional pastures that allow for rotational grazing. Along with a secure pasture, alpacas will need shelter that can protect them from extremely cold weather, wet weather and also provide shade during hot weather. A small three-sided shelter is usually easy to build and will provide the required protection. Why do I have to get at least two alpacas? Alpacas are herd animals. They must have alpaca buddies to thrive. Alpacas housed with no other alpaca companion will not do well, and it is unethical to keep alpacas in a non-communal environment. It is often best to start with three geldings so they will feel a p
Alpacas are ideal small acreage livestock. Six to eight alpacas can be kept on an acre of grassy pasture. Since cleaner pastures will mean cleaner, and therefore more valuable, fleeces, alpacas should be kept on well drained pasture which is free of debris and nuisance plants. Pastures should also be checked for the presence of plants which will be poisonous if eaten. Local agricultural agents can usually be of assistance in the identification of such plants. Alpacas will also appreciate a dusty/sandy spot for rolling somewhere in their pasture or living area. They should have basic shelter available all year. In moderate climates, a three sided shed is adequate. When temperatures and humidity go up in summer, some type of shade is essential. Our alpacas appreciate having access to a shelter with electric fans to cool them and to control pesky insects. Huacaya alpacas seem to be very cold hardy when covered with their growing fleece, although enclosed shelters may be necessary in extre
