Compared to other livestock, alpacas are relatively inexpensive to maintain. They are very easy on your land because their padded feet and toes (like a dog's paw), do not destroy the grass and dig into the soil liked hoofed animals. Their split upper lip prevents them from damaging the vegetation's roots--instead of pulling grass in the pasture, they shear it.
What are alpacas' basic needs?
- fresh water
- shelter from rain and wind--although alpacas don't mind snow so much, they do mind getting wet!
- fencing to guard against predators and keep them in their home
- small amounts of grain with minerals
- good quality hay
- a fixed regimen of worming and vaccinations
You will want to have your alpacas sheared each year. Because their feet have "nails," you will need to trim them--you cut them just like dog's nails! Males grow fighting teeth that need trimmed occasionally (they are very sharp and the machos use them to assert dominance over other males!).
Learning about how to care for your alpacas is not difficult. Most farms that sell alpacas (like BMCA) are more than willing to provide continuing support.
Alpaca associations are invaluable sources of information.
Big Meadow Creek Alpacas
