Basic Information
This is a bullet-pointed page listing some essential information about Alpacas - it provides interesting facts for readers who are new to alpacas.
Te
Korito
Alpacas
Alpacapedia Index
Encyclopaedia of Alpaca Knowledge
Please make your choice from the subjects below. If you cannot find what you are looking for, I would really appreciate a note to tell me so that I can write on the subject for you and future visitors. All pages contain references so if you need more detailed information, a link will take you to the original source.
Please note - all information on these pages is taken from openly available internet sources, scientific literature and experience at this alpaca farm. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, it is for guidance only. Nothing provided here is a substitute for veterinary consultation.
All about the Alpaca
What is an alpaca? Where do they originate from? What are alpacas like? This page discusses the alpaca, from the fossil record and evolution through to describing the modern animal.
Alpaca Facilities
All owners and prospective owners want to keep their alpacas in the best way possible. Here you can find information on the essential needs for keeping your animals.
Alpaca Welfare
Like all animals, alpacas have periodic needs. Covered in this article are nutrition, routine treatments and shearing. Also there are items on halter fit and the legal protections for alpacas in various countries.
Alpaca Reproduction
Breeding crias could be a major reason for your having alpacas. Their reproduction is fairly unique so a good description is given - from mating to unpacking.
Cria Care
Once the cria has unpacked, what next? This page covers what needs to be done to ensure a healthy animal.
Alpaca Unpacking (Birthing)
This is a series of pictures and descriptions about one alpaca at this farm unpacking. It covers from shortly before labour to having her cria standing with her.
Alpaca Illness
As with all animals, sometimes an alpaca can become ill or injured. This section describes some of the common ailments of alpacas and in many cases, how to prevent these issues.
Alpaca Parasites
Internal and external parasites of alpacas can range in severity from nuisance to life-threatening. Many of those encountered are described here.
Facial Eczema
Facial Eczema is a very serious but easily preventable disease in Alpacas. This page provides a full description of how to keep your alpacas safe during the FE season.
Toxic Plants
Many toxic plants can be found growing in paddocks, gardens and hedgerows. Here is a picture gallery of dangerous plants endemic to New Zealand and many other countries.
Training Alpacas
Alpacas are quite easily trained to wear halters, walk on the lead and allow the owner to examine the animal. This page describes how we achieve this.
Alpaca Resources
Here are alpaca related links - from National Associations, to AANZ newsletters, to New Zealand companies offering fibre services and equipment, plus other useful documents.
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