Alpaca (Vicugna pacos)

The Alpaca is a species of South American camelid descended from the Vicuna. It is similar to, and often confused with, the llama. However, alpacas are often noticeably smaller than llamas. Alpacas originate from the central and southern Andes from Peru to Argentina, in an area known as the Altiplano (Spanish for high plain).

Alpacas communicate through body language. The most common is spitting when they are in distress, fearful, or mean to show dominance.

Alpacas stand at approximately 1.5m tall and weigh between 45 and 80kg. They can live up to 15 to 20 years of age.

Did You Know?

• Alpacas have short ears and face; Llamas ears and face are longer.
• Llamas are taller and heavier.
• Alpacas are herd members; Llamas are more independent.
• Alpacas will only ‘spit’ as a last resort; Llamas will ‘spit’ whenever they feel threatened.