An alpaca is sheared once annually. The fiber can be used in many different ways. Many breeders market their fleeces to local spinners and a fiber co-op has been developed to manage the pooling and processing of fleeces to manufacture end products for sale. Compared to most types of livestock, alpacas are very easy to raise and maintain. They require small acreage for grazing.
Alpacas are ruminants with three stomachs and very efficiently convert hay and grass to energy.
Their basic care includes shearing, worming and vaccinations. Alpacas are in strong demand, but still rare outside their native South America. One acre of land can easily accommodate 5-10 animals. This makes alpacas the livestock of choice for individuals and families who have only a few acres and still want the pleasure and investment potential of raising alpacas. Alpaca manure is relatively easy to clean up.