What is an Alpaca?

Alpacas (Vicugna pacos) are a species of South American camelids with a rich history dating back thousands of years. Archaeological evidence from the Puno region of the Peruvian Andes—at elevations of 13,000 to 14,500 feet—shows that alpaca domestication began approximately 6,000 to 7,000 years ago. The ancient Incas of Peru highly valued alpaca fiber, developing it to an exceptional level of sophistication. Inca royalty wore the luxurious, delicate, lightweight fiber produced by these animals, a tradition that modern consumers can now partake in by wearing alpaca-based products.

Adult alpacas typically stand between 32 to 39 inches at the withers and weigh from 105 to 185 pounds. They have a lifespan of about 20 years, with gestation lasting approximately 11.5 months. The term "cria" (pronounced cree-ah) refers to a baby alpaca. Crias are born in a protective herd environment, often standing within the first hour of birth, which is usually quick, easy, and problem-free. Interestingly, births tend to occur between 8:00 AM and noon, possibly as an adaptation to reduce hypothermia risks during the cold Andean nights.

Alpacas give birth standing up, resulting in a natural "flop" onto the earth, which begins their life. Their early independence and ability to nurse shortly after birth contribute to high survival rates. By around three months old, crias are capable of digesting grass and are ready to join the herd.

Environmentally, alpacas are eco-friendly grazers. They have footpads rather than hooves, which cause less soil compaction, and they graze delicately, trimming vegetation without uprooting it. They also use communal dung piles, which helps maintain clean grazing areas. Consuming less than a gallon of water daily, alpacas have a minimal impact on water resources.

Known for their gentle and sweet nature, alpacas produce a renewable, environmentally friendly fiber. Apparel and furnishings made from alpaca fiber are sustainable choices, offering consumers a genuine, eco-conscious alternative that supports environmental preservation while enjoying luxurious, high-quality products.

Alpacas (Vicugna pacos) are a species of South American camelids with a rich history dating back thousands of years. Archaeological evidence from the Puno region of the Peruvian Andes—at elevations of 13,000 to 14,500 feet—shows that alpaca domestication began approximately 6,000 to 7,000 years ago. The ancient Incas of Peru highly valued alpaca fiber, developing it to an exceptional level of sophistication. Inca royalty wore the luxurious, delicate, lightweight fiber produced by these animals, a tradition that modern consumers can now partake in by wearing alpaca-based products.

Adult alpacas typically stand between 32 to 39 inches at the withers and weigh from 105 to 185 pounds. They have a lifespan of about 20 years, with gestation lasting approximately 11.5 months. The term "cria" (pronounced cree-ah) refers to a baby alpaca. Crias are born in a protective herd environment, often standing within the first hour of birth, which is usually quick, easy, and problem-free. Interestingly, births tend to occur between 8:00 AM and noon, possibly as an adaptation to reduce hypothermia risks during the cold Andean nights.

Alpacas give birth standing up, resulting in a natural "flop" onto the earth, which begins their life. Their early independence and ability to nurse shortly after birth contribute to high survival rates. By around three months old, crias are capable of digesting grass and are ready to join the herd.

Environmentally, alpacas are eco-friendly grazers. They have footpads rather than hooves, which cause less soil compaction, and they graze delicately, trimming vegetation without uprooting it. They also use communal dung piles, which helps maintain clean grazing areas. Consuming less than a gallon of water daily, alpacas have a minimal impact on water resources.

Known for their gentle and sweet nature, alpacas produce a renewable, environmentally friendly fiber. Apparel and furnishings made from alpaca fiber are sustainable choices, offering consumers a genuine, eco-conscious alternative that supports environmental preservation while enjoying luxurious, high-quality products.

Alpacas (Vicugna pacos) are a species of South American camelids with a rich history dating back thousands of years. Archaeological evidence from the Puno region of the Peruvian Andes—at elevations of 13,000 to 14,500 feet—shows that alpaca domestication began approximately 6,000 to 7,000 years ago. The ancient Incas of Peru highly valued alpaca fiber, developing it to an exceptional level of sophistication. Inca royalty wore the luxurious, delicate, lightweight fiber produced by these animals, a tradition that modern consumers can now partake in by wearing alpaca-based products.

Adult alpacas typically stand between 32 to 39 inches at the withers and weigh from 105 to 185 pounds. They have a lifespan of about 20 years, with gestation lasting approximately 11.5 months. The term "cria" (pronounced cree-ah) refers to a baby alpaca. Crias are born in a protective herd environment, often standing within the first hour of birth, which is usually quick, easy, and problem-free. Interestingly, births tend to occur between 8:00 AM and noon, possibly as an adaptation to reduce hypothermia risks during the cold Andean nights.

Alpacas give birth standing up, resulting in a natural "flop" onto the earth, which begins their life. Their early independence and ability to nurse shortly after birth contribute to high survival rates. By around three months old, crias are capable of digesting grass and are ready to join the herd.

Environmentally, alpacas are eco-friendly grazers. They have footpads rather than hooves, which cause less soil compaction, and they graze delicately, trimming vegetation without uprooting it. They also use communal dung piles, which helps maintain clean grazing areas. Consuming less than a gallon of water daily, alpacas have a minimal impact on water resources.

Known for their gentle and sweet nature, alpacas produce a renewable, environmentally friendly fiber. Apparel and furnishings made from alpaca fiber are sustainable choices, offering consumers a genuine, eco-conscious alternative that supports environmental preservation while enjoying luxurious, high-quality products.

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