Farming & Ranching Alpacas: What You Need to Know

  • Thread starter DaveC426913
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In summary, the alpacas are a type of farm animal that used to be popular a few years ago. They are cold-hardy and don't smell as bad as lamas. They can go for a high price, but I'm not interested in owning one.
  • #1
DaveC426913
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Ranching alpacas

Anyone know anything about it?
 
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  • #2
Wouldn't you ranch alpacas, not farm them?

Also, is ranch a verb?
 
  • #3


lisab said:
Wouldn't you ranch alpacas, not farm them?
OK.[10 char]
 
  • #4
Ranching is a form of farming.

Alpacas were popular around here for a time. The only comment that I recall hearing about it is that the market is highly volatile. I know that perhaps ten years ago, some people lost their shirts by buying at the peak of the market. I don't know what has happened since then, but I have seen a few alpacas again lately.
 
  • #5
I know they smell really bad and like to spit. Thats all I know.
 
  • #6
Topher925 said:
I know they smell really bad and like to spit. Thats all I know.

I thought that was lamas...alpacas are supposed to be sweet-tempered. Also, alpacas don't have lanolin, so they don't smell as bad as lamas.
 
  • #7
They make nice sweaters.
 
  • #8
I've heard they cost around $10k per pair. Not for me.
 
  • #9


DaveC426913 said:
Anyone know anything about it?

Actually, there are a few alpaca farms in my area. Apparently they handle cold really well. They eat relatively little (low cost upkeep), and aren't vulnerable to as many infections as sheep.

http://www.sfalpacas.com/

Oh, and for some reason, they don't smell from about 10 feet away, but once you close that gap... yikes!
 
  • #10
Ivan Seeking said:
Ranching is a form of farming.

Alpacas were popular around here for a time. The only comment that I recall hearing about it is that the market is highly volatile. I know that perhaps ten years ago, some people lost their shirts by buying at the peak of the market. I don't know what has happened since then, but I have seen a few alpacas again lately.

the trick is to get in early

[PLAIN]http://d.yimg.com/a/p/uc/20101119/largeimagecl101119.gif
 
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  • #11
There are a few farms by me. I have a friend who helps on one farm and she once told me the owner had sold an alpaca for 20k! A prize alpaca can go for 80k!
 
  • #12
[PLAIN]http://icanhascheezburger.files.wordpress.com/2010/11/funny-puns-your-doom-shall-be-warm-and-soft.jpeg?w=500&h=399

Lol, the URL of that pic has this in it: "your-doom-shall-be-warm-and-soft"
 
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  • #13
lisab said:
I thought that was lamas...

Tip from Ogden Nash:

The one-l lama, he's a priest.
The two-l llama, he's a beast.

:wink:
 
  • #14
jtbell said:
Tip from Ogden Nash:

The one-l lama, he's a priest.
The two-l llama, he's a beast.

:wink:

Except in the case of the Fernando.

You look marvelous!
 
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FAQ: Farming & Ranching Alpacas: What You Need to Know

What is the average lifespan of an alpaca?

The average lifespan of an alpaca is between 15-20 years. However, some alpacas have been known to live up to 25 years.

How much space do alpacas need?

Alpacas are herd animals and require at least 1/4 to 1/2 an acre of grazing land per animal. They also need a shelter to protect them from extreme weather conditions and predators.

What type of fencing is best for alpacas?

Alpacas are known to be escape artists, so it is important to have secure fencing that is at least 5 feet tall. Fencing made of woven wire or no-climb horse fence is recommended, as they cannot easily fit their heads through the openings.

Do alpacas require any special care?

Alpacas require regular grooming, nail trimming, and annual vaccinations and deworming. They also need to be sheared once a year to prevent overheating and health issues. Additionally, alpacas need to be given access to fresh water and a diet of hay, grass, and supplements.

Can alpacas be used for their fiber?

Yes, alpacas are primarily raised for their fiber, which is known for its softness, warmth, and hypoallergenic properties. Their fiber can be used to make a variety of products such as clothing, blankets, and rugs.

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