Alpaca Farming
The first thing that you will notice is that you will never find just one alpaca because alpacas do not like to live alone. They need other alpacas to keep them company. After all, they are herd animals, and they need their herd. Most herds in the United States are less than ten alpacas. So, you will be in good company if you stay small! Of course, if you dream about alpacas as far as you can see, then go for it! Alpacas are the ultimate green livestock since they are so eco-friendly!
But first, successful alpaca farming requires a thorough alpaca business plan followed by a well-planned alpaca farm layout.
On every alpaca ranch, you will see alpaca fencing. Since alpacas rarely challenge a fence, the fence is designed to keep predators out. Wild dogs or neighborhood pack dogs are their worst foe. You will also see some type of housing for protection from the elements. An alpaca barn would be ideal, but you can also start with a three-sided alpaca shelter. The alpaca barn layout should also be well-planned. It should meet your needs initially, and also be flexible for future needs, too. Every shelter will have strategically-placed fans to prevent heat stress in the summer. Watering systems are also an important consideration. It can be as simple as a hose, to in-barn plumbing, and to heated automatic troughs. Some owners use covered hay troughs while others use portable hay bags for dispensing hay. You would want to prevent dew from accumulating on the hay.
Most farms will have a livestock guardian dog to protect their alpaca investment.
Sometimes you will see a guardian llama. So, if you love animals, you will have plenty of excuses to get some more!
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If you will be allowing unlimited access to pastures, then you need at least 1 acre per every 5 alpacas. Pasture management keeps the pastures in great condition! You will also need to recognize poisonous plants, and keep them out of the pasture.
