If you are thinking about the Alpaca Industry, especially Suris, and feel a bit confused about where to start, here are some ANSWERS to common questions asked.

How do I care for them?

Suri alpacas are generally hardy and disease and parasite free. They require basic care with vaccinations, occasional toe & teeth trimming and annual shearing. They are easy to herd and handle.

How many can I run?

It will all depend on the type of pasture you provide but a standard stocking rate is similar to the Dry Sheep Equivalent per hectare (DSE).

Can I have one as a pet?

Most alpacas make very good pets provided they are treated well and you do not have any great expectation of them. The more you handle them as youngsters the quieter they become as they age. Alpacas are sensitive about being touched on the head and legs.

What do you do with the fleece?

Alpaca fleece is highly prized for its soft feel, its high thermal properties, its durability and its great variety of natural colours. For those with pets they may use the fleece themselves to create their own garments, or fleece can be sent to the Australian Alpaca Association where it is purchased and they on-sell fleece to processors.

What do they eat?

Suri alpacas are easy to look after. They are highly adapted to eating small amounts of selected plants and do best on good quality pasture, with access to plant material with long fibres: eg. hay. Fresh drinking water should be readily available.