Alpacas originated in South America and today they are farmed all over the world. Their wild ancestor, the Vicuna, is found in semi-arid grasslands and plains.
They have slender bodies and a long, thin next, that they use to spot predators.
They are bred for their famous fleece, a special type of wool called “fibre”. Their fibre is one of the warmest and finest textiles in the world and it can be used to make luxurious clothing and blankets.
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Alpaca
Vicugna pacos
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Animal classMammal, equidae -
HabitatThey are domesticated so have adapted to living in a wide range of habitats all over the world.
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DietHerbivores – eats grasses and hay. They are hindgut fermenters, like horses.
Alpaca is a domesticated member of the camel family.
They have a three-chambered stomach to help them extract as many nutrients as possible from their grass diet. They will use a communal dung pile, away from where they graze, making them very hygienic animals.
They are commonly used as guard animals, as they can detect predators a lot quicker than other farm animals. They alert others of danger and will attack smaller predators by kicking and spitting.
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Introduction
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Habitat
Alpacas originated in South America and today they are farmed all over the world.
Their wild ancestor, the Vicuna, is found in semi-arid grasslands and plains. -
Fun Facts
Pregnancy occurs from 11 to 13 months after which the female will usually give birth to 1 foal.
