AT shows and events, I am often asked whether alpacas are shorn and, if so, how this is done. I have been told but recently I had my first opportunity to see two different shearers in action at two alpaca herds near to where I live.
FOR many people, their first encounter with alpacas is at a show of some sort. This may be a local affair where the resident alpaca owner has brought along a few animals or a large agricultural show where there are competitive alpaca classes. Others may have noticed "funny-looking sheep" in a field as they drive along. However the meeting occurs, it is difficult not to be enchanted by these attractive animals and to fall in love with them.
THE highest-selling alpaca at the British Alpaca Futurity 2008 elite auction held at Newbury Racecourse on February 16-17 changed hands for 15,000 guineas. He was Wellground Killawasi's Keepsake, a solid white, 22-month-old unproven stud male, sired by Accoyo Killawasi. He was supreme champion at the South of England Show in 2007.
UNTIL only a few years ago, most people in the UK were not aware of alpacas or llamas although they may have seen them in the zoo. Now, with a UK alpaca herd of well over 15,000 and a strong presence at agricultural shows from Devon to Edinburgh, these animals are much better known.
FIRSTLY, it is good to remember that the vast majority of alpaca births occur easily and normally. However, things can go wrong and it is helpful to have an idea of these problems so that you know if you should be able to deal with them or whether you need to call the vet.
