The cottage spinner weaver with one or two pet alpacas can use the wool to great benefit. The smallholder can raise a herd on land that would not support even a pair of cattle.
Alpacas are small, gentle creatures with small appetites.
For the professional retiring to the country they may well be the ideal livestock option. There are several tax advantages as well. The capital expenses of land and buildings is modest compared to other livestock options. As many as six alpacas can graze on a single acre. Barn and shelter can also be of a modest size.