Have you ever heard of the alpaca? It is a domesticated species of South American camelid. It resembles a small llama in appearance. Alpacas are considerably smaller than llamas and unlike llamas, they are not bred to be beasts of burden. They are bred specifically for their fibre. Alpaca fibre is used for making knitted and woven items, similar to wool. These items include blankets, sweaters, hats, gloves, scarves, a wide variety of textiles and ponchos in South America, as well as sweaters, socks, coats and bedding in other parts of the world.
An adult alpaca is generally between 81 and 99 cm in height. They usually weigh between 48 and 84 kg. Alpacas are social herd animals that live in family groups consisting of a territorial alpha male, females and their young. Alpacas warn the herd about intruders by making sharp, noisy inhalations that sound like a high-pitched bray. The herd may attack smaller predators with their front feet and can spit and kick. Most alpacas do not like being grabbed. Some alpacas tolerate being stroked or petted anywhere on their bodies although many do not like their feet, lower legs and especially their abdomen to be touched or handled.
Watch the Suri Alpacas in this clip.
Test Your Science
1. State the difference(s) between the llama and alpaca.
Learn about the Llama in the Young Scientists Issue 117 Level 3.
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