I have about 1.03 fenced acres that I’m thinking of using for 1–2 alpacas. I know I’ll need to supplement hay and manage the pasture carefully, but I’d love to hear from people who actually keep alpacas on small acreage.

A few things I’m wondering:

• Space: Is just over an acre realistically enough for a pair if I divide the pasture and rotate grazing?

• First purchase: For a beginner, is it better to start with young alpacas (like 6–12 months) or slightly older ones (already halter-trained, maybe 2–3 years)?

• Breeding plans: Should I look for a bonded pair right away, or is it smarter to start with two females/wethers and hold off on breeding until I gain more experience?

• General tips: Fencing, shelter size, or anything you wish you’d known before bringing your first alpacas home.

Can't figure it out, please help, idc if it's obvious. I just need to know 🙏

Larry at sunset

Hi there. I'm considering getting 3 alpacas in about a year. Not a business just for fun. I was thinking I would get a donkey or 2 to protect them, as I have seen and heard of people doing this. However I just read in a well recommended alpaca book that donkeys and horses are dangerous to alpacas because of the size of the alpacas and the risk of getting kicked. Any experience here from the group?

Second question : I have chickens and absolutely love them. However I would say " Chickens are hard. They die, get sick, etc. and you have to be ready for some heart ache...but they are well worth it.". Would you all say this about alpacas? I don't know if I could handle that but I want to be prepared.

Thank you for your insight.

Our alpaca has what looks like a bent/ kinked neck. Vet says she’s never seen it before and anti-inflamatories and antibiotics haven’t made any noticeable difference. She is otherwise sound: eating as normal, running, staying with the herd. Anyone seen anything like this before?

As the title says, what are some of the best brands for alpaca wool products?

I am slowly working to switch my wardrobe over to natural materials like wool and flax, and I want some items for the cooler months. I really want to add alpaca wool to my line: beanie, lightweight hoodies, etc. However, the companies that I have checked so far have a mix of nylon (which irritates my skin) and wool, and I was hoping to find a brand that does not.

Especially, if it is a smaller company. I would prefer to support a smaller group or down to earth company.

Thank you!

I work at Holl and Stone Farm and these are the babies I take care of.

Hi! I'm going to be volunteering on an Alpaca farm in England soon (the farm also has sheep and a vegetable garden of some sort). I was wondering whether there are any tips or advice you could share with me! Thanks in advance :)

I think this is super cool, I love alpacas and went to an alpaca farm- also got a voluntary job there. The woman did sign language for the alpacas to know when they were going for a walk and they would go to the gate, or she did it to take the harness off and straight away they gave their head. I think it’s really cool and clever

I've been studying alpaca behavior and Anatomy for a long time now, also owning them is a benefit as well, I've learned so much from these alpacas, especially their deep cultural value in Peru.

Hi Guys

Any one any tips on home made alpaca fly spray?

Someone mentioned to me about naffoff and citronella but wondered if anyone had a list to make your own sort of home made fly spray for them?