Alpaca History |
|
|
In 1984 the first alpacas were imported into this country and are now being raised in many countries around the globe. These importations continued until 1998 when the members of the Alpaca Registry voted to close the door to future importations in an effort to provide the North American breeders with greater sales opportunities. With this action accomplished, it is now the local farms that are the providers of alpacas to folks wanting to get started in this ever-growing industry. The current population of alpacas in North America now numbers in excess of 200,000 registered animals, and data from the Alpaca Owner's and Breeder's Association indicates that an ever-increasing number of people are making contact with the organization to find out how they can get started as owners of the world's finest livestock investment.
The joy that raising these peaceful animals is not to be underestimated. This is an animal that can be your primary source of income or a part-time business venture that can involve the whole family in a healthy lifestyle. Breeding these unique, gentle animals is a rewarding experience that can bring you a more peaceful, stress free way of living, and at the same time present you with the opportunity for significant financial returns.
|
|
The alpaca is a member of the South American camelid family, which includes the vicuna, guanaco, llama and alpaca. The llama and alpaca have been domesticated for over 5,000 years, with the llama being primarily used as a pack animal, while the alpaca is raised for its exceptionally fine fiber. The Incans, who once populated the native area (Peru, Bolivia and Chile) of the alpaca, spun this amazing fiber to produce cloth, which was, in turn, mostly reserved for royalty. Today the largest herds of alpacas are found in the high altitudes of Peru, in an area known as the altiplano. In this harsh environment of cold nights, high winds, thin air and little moisture, the native Quechuan Indians sustain a life as shepherds, tending their herds of alpacas. The alpacas provide these hard-working people with both clothing and meat, along with a trade product to supply the rest of their daily needs.
