ALPACA FACTS

WHAT  ARE   ALPACAS?

There are two types of alpacas that are distinguished by their fiber.  The Huacaya has a wavy fleece (crimp) and the Suri, which has a long pencil-type lock. Alpacas come in more than 22 beautiful colors. Alpacas are from the camelid family of South America.

An adult Alpaca averages 150 lbs and is about 36 inches at the withers. Females are generally bred at 18-24 months.  Gestation is approximately 11 ½ months. Alpacas usually give birth in the daylight hours.  Dams are normally re-bred after 14 to 21 days.  The baby is called a “cria” and weighs between 15-20 pounds.  The life span of an alpaca is about 20 years.

HOW DO I TRANSPORT ALPACAS?

Amazingly, alpacas can be transported in the family mini van, SUV, station wagon or horse trailer. Once enroute, alpacas will simply  “cush” (lie) down.

 HOW MUCH PROPERTY DO I NEED?

Alpacas are ideal for the small acreage rancher.  You can usually raise between 5-10 alpacas per acre.

ARE ALPACAS EASY TO CARE FOR?

Alpacas are one of the easiest livestock To care for.  They need little more than hay, fresh water and mineral supplements for nutrition. Alpacas need shelter against  heat and the winter weather. Alpacas do not challenge fences and simply require routine vaccinations, worming and nail trimming. Alpacas are herd animals and should always be in the company of at least one other alpaca. Alpacas cost less to feed than a large dog.
 
 

  

ALPACA FIBER

Alpaca fiber is one of the rarest natural fibers in the world. It is used in luxurious clothing designed by some of the most elite fashion houses.

Alpaca fiber is unique in several ways. Alpaca fiber comes in over 22 different natural colors, ranging from white, tan, reds browns to black. Alpaca fiber also is found in several shades of gray. It blends well with other types of natural (and manmade) fibers. It that reduces the prickly feel often associated with wool clothing.

 

Alpaca fiber, it's like gold on the hoof!

o        Softer than cashmere.

o        Naturally lustrous.

o        Lighter yet stronger and Warmer than wool.

o        Naturally hypoallergenic (and lanolin free).

 INVESTMENT BENEFITS

Everyone’s tax status is different.  Please talk to your accountant first.

TAX DEFERRED WEALTH BUILDING

One can purchase several alpacas and then allow the herd to grow over time without paying income tax on its increased size and value until a sale is made.

Tax advantages of alpaca ownership include the employment of depreciation, capital gains treatment and for the active hands-on rancher, offsetting your ordinary income from other sources of expenses from your ranching business.

 PPOTENTIAL DEDUCTIONS FOR THE HANDS-ON RANCHER

o        Livestock feed

o        Depreciation on breeding animals & real property improvements

o        Vet bills

o        Advertising

o        Repairs and maintenance

o        Vehicle mileage

o        Farm-related travel expenses

o        Taxes and insurance

o        Breeding fees

o        Educational expenses

 
 
 
 

 

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