How to Buy Alpacas

Raising alpacas for their offspring and their wool is an emerging, fast-growing industry. But before buying and raising alpacas, there are many considerations to keep in mind. Alpacas have their own social systems and needs that you must respect in order to keep them happy.

Instructions

1. Make sure you have enough land available to host the number of alpacas you want. Have at least 1 acre available for 5 to 10 alpacas. Clear the land of any vegetation that could be hazardous such as poisonous plants or briers.

2. Set up a fence that keeps your alpaca herd in an enclosed area and keeps potential predators away. Set up a fence that is at least 5 feet tall. Keep the openings no more than 4 inches apart. Make sure the fence is strong.

3. Stock your land with grass, hay and other items the alpacas need. Stock up on vitamin supplements and grain that you can add to the alpacas' diet. Stock up on milk substitutes, if you plan on raising babies right away.

4. Buy at least two alpacas, since they are most comfortable in a herd. The more, the merrier, as the saying goes.

5. Choose alpacas with an eye to the breeding plan you have in mind for your herd. Buy a pregnant female to get a jump start on breeding, or purchase a gelding and a female instead if you plan on putting off pregnancies until later.

Resources

• I Love Alpacas is the place for alpaca enthusiasts.