OUR ANIMALS

Our herd comprises a group of wethered males, another of breeding females, and five stud males though two are now retired. While many of our animals are white, the rest range in colour from very light fawn through to black. It has been of interest in our breeding program that colours and other physical characteristics can be so unpredictable. There is also a range of personalities. Some animals are quite dominant, others aloof, some maintain family or friendship groups, and some are particularly good guards. While some individuals may be confident, inquisitive and alert, others follow the herd and clearly prefer the comfort of following the group.

The herd now numbers fifty-four alpacas and two llamas. Many bred by us, some bought, and some acquired when other breeders were changing from huacaya to suri or retiring. We bought the two llamas to guard the herd after a dog attack that killed an animal and maimed two others. We have sold a number of wethered males, as pets, guard animals for chickens or sheep and paddock mowers.

We have experienced times of drought, exceptional rainfalls, and freezing weather. As some in our herd have aged, (some are now seventeen to nineteen) in recent winters one or two animals have succumbed to a particularly cold night, whether snow or frost.

In caring for the herd, we have developed safe and efficient procedures for mating, birthing, palliative care, and around the death of animals.