photo by Armstrong Studio

Physical Facts

Life Span: 15 - 20+ years
Height: 32"- 39" at the shoulder
Birth Weight: 10 - 17 pounds
Adult Weight: 100 - 190 pounds

Reproduction, Birth & Babies
Male alpacas reach sexual maturity at about 2-1/2 years of age.  Females are first bred at 16 - 20 months of age.  Like other South American camelids, alpacas do not have a heat (estrus) cycle and can be bred any time of the  year. Many breeders consider the weather and pasture conditions very carefully when planning their birthing schedules. An average gestation of 335 days produces a single baby (cria) which is usually delivered from a standing position during daylight hours. Alpacas are burdened with the fact that their crias are unusually large for the size of the mother. Alpaca mothers weighing between 120 and 140 pounds often give birth to babies weighing between 16 - 22 pounds. Not only are the babies big, they grow rapidly, so mothers need plenty of good nutrition in order to transfer enough to a growing cria that will usually weigh more than 100 pounds by the time it is a yearling. Crias are generally weaned at around six months of age.

Alpaca Health
While hardy and generally disease resistant, basic care includes yearly vaccinations, worming protocols, regular toenail trimming and occasional dental care.  On the east coast, alpacas are shorn every 12 months to harvest their exquisite fleece and maintain their health. They also require basic shelter from the elements and in winter months many breeders provide bedding.