Japan, Britain, Israel and France now have alpacas. This growth is sure to continue as the alpaca gains international recognition. The demand for alpacas is part of a larger appetite for investment in rare breeds. Whole industries have sprung up around ostriches, miniature donkeys and even Tibetan yaks. Investment in rare livestock coincides with people's desire to live in the country, raise their children on a farm, or retire to a rural lifestyle.
Alpacas offer an outstanding choice as a livestock investment.
They have long been known as the aristocrat of all farm animals. But most of all, alpacas are easy keepers, they have a charismatic manner, do very well on small acreages and produce a luxury product which is in high demand. Consumers are drawn to alpaca sweaters with just one touch. Alpaca is several times stronger and much warmer than sheep's wool. The fiber itself is semi-hollow and makes into very light, thermal garments.