Alpacas at Apple Tree Farm

Alpacas are herd animals, and the smallest members of the camelid family, which includes llamas and camels.

They were domesticated in South American countries some 6,000 years ago and, coming from the Andes, they are very hardy creatures.

There are two types, the Huacaya and the Suri, the only difference between them being the way their fleece grows.

These endearing though shy creatures will give you lots of love once they get to know you.

That’s why the farm works the alpacas to provide therapeutic sessions for children and young adults with a range of disabilities, as part of the care farming activities.

The alpacas are bred every other year so do keep an eye on the calendar to see when cria are next due to be born.

Alpacs fleeces for sale

Why keep alpacas – and how do you start?

Alpacas are bred not only for their therapeutic role but for their fleece (see below) and to sell. They are in demand not only because of their many attractive qualities – these quiet animals require very little upkeep, their soft padded toes are gentle on the ground, so it doesn’t get churned up easily. Because they are herding animals it’s important to keep at least two, though three or more are preferable. You can keep up to 5 on just one acre, though a little more space would allow for grazing rotation. And they do need shelter from the summer sun. If you are considering starting your own alpaca herd, the farm team would be happy to talk to you about owning these animals.

Alpaca fleece and yarn

Alpaca fleece is highly sought-after due to its hypoallergenic features, because it is durable and silky and much softer and warmer than sheep’s wool. Lacking lanolin, it is easy to clean too. There is often a good supply raw fleece in a variety of natural colours for crafters and wool spinners. Please contact the farm team for more information on fleeces available for sale.

Alpacas For Sale

Park Farm Phileas

Born: 2016

Solid Mid Brown Huacaya

Ear tag on file

Microchipped

BAS Registered breeding male

I would love to tell you that I am a delightful creature but if I told you this, you’d ask us why my owner is not keeping me. So let’s go for the raw truth.

– I spit, particularly at other alpacas, but if you are stuck in the way, then it is tough luck.

– I kick, particularly other alpacas, but if you are stuck in the way, then it is tough luck. Double tough luck if you have just been spat at.

– I like to hump things. Many things. Any thing, actually. I cannot live with other animals, including sheeps, goats, pigs, horses or grasshoppers. Heck, at the moment I cannot even live with other alpacas! I do like to share a fence line though and would be highly stressed if not allowed to live near other alpacas.

– On the topic of fence line, I will breach most kinds of fence line to reach the females. Of the animal kind. Humans be safe. ish.

– I produce beautiful babies.

Please contact us for any enquiries

Pippin Farm Conrad

Born: 2018

Dark Brown Huacaya