Alpacas and the Llamas belong to the family of small domesticated camelids, in the same way that Camels and Dromedaries belong to the family of large camelids. They originate from South America (Chili, Peru).         The adult Alpaca messures approximately 90 cm at the withers and approximately 150 cm to the tip of the ears. A female adult weighs around 60 kg and a male between 70 and 75 kg. Reproduction is slow, a gestation period of 11½ months and only one baby is born, called a cria, which will be weaned at the age of 6 months. Their wool is very fine and of a high quality. Alpacas may be shorn every year, but the fleece can be left to grow for 2 or 3 years. Colours: white, apricot, dark brown, reddish brown, black, bicolour, tricolour. Life expectancy is around twenty years.         As pets, Alpacas are charming and graceful animals. They are very calm and sweet natured, with a natural affinity for children. They will come and eat out of your hand, and can be walked using a halter, but they will always maintain a certain independence without being timid. They are very inquisitive animals and extremely intelligent. Alpacas communicate between themselves using very discreet little humming sounds. The Alpaca is neither aggressive towards people, nor to other animals and can therefore easily cohabit with other species. They do not try to escape, and will not damage the bark of trees.

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