ALPACA FACTS

The alpaca originates from the Andes Mountains of South America, particularly Peru, Bolivia and Chile. It has been domesticated for over 6,000 years and was highly valued by the Incas for its warm and soft wool, which was often called the “golden fiber of the Andes”.

An alpaca usually lives between 15 and 20 years, but can live up to 25 years under good conditions. Lifespan is affected by diet, environment and veterinary care.

Alpacas are ruminants that feed mainly on grass and hay. They have a three-chambered stomach that allows them to utilize their food very efficiently. This means that they can survive on much less feed than, for example, sheep or goats, and they are therefore gentle on pastures.

Adult alpacas weigh between 50 and 80 kilograms and stand 80–100 cm tall at the shoulder. In comparison, a llama can weigh up to 200 kilograms and stand 120 cm tall.

The llama is larger and was traditionally used as a pack animal in the Andes. The alpaca is smaller and is bred primarily for the quality of its wool. Alpaca wool is softer and finer than llama hair. Llamas also have a longer and more prominent face, while alpacas have a more compact and "teddy bear"-like appearance.

Alpacas are herd animals that feel safe in groups of at least three animals. They are calm and curious, but can be wary around people they don’t know. To communicate, they make a low “humming” sound, and they may use body language such as laying their ears back to show discomfort.

Alpaca wool is known as one of the world's most exclusive natural fibers. It is strong, lightweight, warmer than sheep's wool, and does not contain lanolin, making it naturally hypoallergenic. The fiber is used for everything from fine garments such as sweaters, scarves and coats, to interior products such as blankets and pillows.

Peru is the world's largest producer of alpaca wool, accounting for around 80–85% of all global production. Approximately 4–5 thousand tons of fiber are produced each year. In comparison, over 1 million tons of sheep wool are produced globally. Alpaca wool is therefore a rare and exclusive fiber on the world market.

Alpacas almost always have only one young, called a “cria”. Twins are very rare (less than 1%). The gestation period is long – about 11.5 months. A cria usually weighs 6–9 kilograms at birth.In the picture we see little Sissi, born 04.07.2025

Alpacas may spit to defend themselves or to mark their rank in the herd, often in connection with food or mating. However, most will spit at each other – not at people – unless they feel very threatened. The saliva contains stomach contents and has a strong smell, so it’s a clear warning!

They love rabbit pellets from Felleskjøpet!Alpacas eat rabbit pellets because they contain many of the nutrients they need, such as protein, fiber, and vitamins, and because they tend to like the tasty composition of ingredients designed to be appetizing to *herbivores. Although alpacas prefer hay and grass, rabbit pellets act as a supplement to meet their nutritional needs, especially when it comes to concentrated nutrients.*A herbivore, or plant eater, is an animal that exclusively eats plants for nutrition.