EcoZeal

Alpacas are ideal for erosion-prone areas because of their padded feet.

It has big, soft eyes, teddy bear hair and a sweet demeanor, and it loves to hum– what farm animal could be more appealing than the gentle alpaca? Only about 3 feet tall at the shoulder, this South American relative of the camel has provided people with one of the world’s plushest natural fibers for 5,000 years.

Alpaca wool is warmer and more luxurious than sheep’s wool. What’s more, it’s not itchy, and tends not to cause allergic reactions. Alpaca wool can be dyed, but since it comes in such a range of natural colors (the U.S. recognizes 16 different alpaca color variations) many alpaca garments are produced using no dye at all. The soft, lustrous fiber is considered equal to cashmere by many fiber connoisseurs.

The Alpaca Advantage

In many ways, alpacas represent the ultimate fiber-producing animal. Their 100-200 pound bodies produce enough soft wool to make several sweaters each year. They are extremely efficient, eating less and producing more per pound of animal than other fiber–producing livestock. Their padded feet have no sharp hooves or claws, so they don’t tear up delicate pasture areas. And they graze gently, without tearing up pasture grass by the roots.

Even more welcome to the animal activist crowd is the fact that at this point in history, alpacas are not used for meat production. Alpaca meat was a traditional Incan delicacy, but today the animals are protected in their native Peru. The reason for this is the animal’s recent explosion in popularity outside South America. In the United States, breeding animals sell for $1,500 to well over $100,000 apiece. Animals not selected for breeding are eagerly sought as additions to small spinning flocks and as pets.

Get to Know the Alpaca

Visiting an alpaca farm is a great way to spend a free afternoon. The animals are gentle and inquisitive and fun to watch. If you’re lucky you’ll get to hear them hum, which is one way they communicate with each other. Alpacas are adaptable to many cllimates, so chances are you will be able to find an alpaca farm or ranch in your area. And don’t forget to ask to see alpaca products. Many breeders are also artisans and will be able to show you the entire production process from raw wool to finished sweater. You may even go home with a new, local – and luxurious – treasure.

Resources

Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association  – General information about alpacas, fiber and fashion

ILoveAlpacas.com  – Where to find an alpaca farm near you

Alpaca.com  Alpaca site directory, including The Alpaca Shop online store

Alpaca Nation  – Site directory, including a listing of alpacas for sale. Alpaca Nation also has an extensive list of alpaca retailers, arranged by product category (Outerwear, Blankets & bedding, etc.)