Recent information suggests that the alpaca was derived from a cross between the domesticated llama and the vicuna. The coloring of an alpaca varies from pure white to rich brown. Also white and brown patches.
Alpacas possess a multi-chambered stomach.
They have a divided top lip and continually growing lower teeth which allow close grazing of tough grasses. Alpacas and llamas are specially adapted for life in the Andes Mountains. Their fur is long and thick to protect them against the cold. Their feet have soft pads and sharp nails to give them sure footing. Alpacas walk on pads at the end of their toes instead of their hooves so they can travel easily over rocky ground.