|
|
 |
|
Of all the livestock you can own, the alpaca is one of the easiest and most inexpensive to maintain. This factor contributes significantly to their overall investment value and the quality of life of those who care for them. Small wonder that the alpaca is now considered the world's finest livestock investment.Their physical needs are simple and "user friendly" for the new owner as well as the experienced alpaca farmer:
|
|
|
Acreage
The general rule is that five to ten alpacas can easily and efficiently maintained on one acre of usable land. This will vary depending on your farm layout, the nature of your land, and other factors. Obviously, if your pasture has a little grass and a lot of alpacas, you will need to provide additional high-quality grass hay for your herd.
|
|
Shelter
Since alpacas have survived several millennia in the harsh cold of the high Andes, they have developed a remarkable ability to be comfortable during the worst of our winters. Depending on where you reside, a three-sided shelter with the open side facing east-southeast is usually adequate. Since we has some cold winters in North Idaho, we have chosen a barn to shelter our animals when the temperature drops to the wee digits.In warm weather, alpacas need shade and airflow. Make sure your shelter and/or barn has adequate ventilation and be prepared to use fans in these areas on warm, muggy days.Clean, fresh water should also be available in or near the shelter. Alpacas do not consume much water, but they will resist drinking stale or dirty water.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
