| Alpacas are social animals, which should never be kept alone. For this reason it is essential to keep a minimum of two studs or two dams together as a group (wethers can also form part of this group). It is advised not to keep studs and dams together unless you are aiming to cover one or more dams with the stud. They should be kept separated at least until the birth of the cria, this will avoid unnecessary pressure from the stud towards the dam. A pure stable environment is prohibited. Alpacas need to be able to move around, therefore regular access to open pastures is absolutely necessary. An open stall environment is recommended, so that the animals can decide for themselves if they wish to remain within the stable or if they wish to be out on the open pastures. One should calculate with a stable size of approximately 2mtrs2 with a minimum height of 2mtrs.. | |
| The grazing area should be at least 250mtrs2 for the first two alpacas in able to offer sufficient grazing area, with each additional animal requiring 20 - 30 mtrs2. However, it should be noted that the same surface area is not sufficient as pasture land for the whole year, for this, a surface of 600 – 800 mtrs2 is necessary. Alpacas are also recognised as useful agricultural animals. An alpaca is a 0.7 – 0.11 cattle unit, therefore approximately 12 alpacas can be held per hectare, and still receive enough green feed for the entire year. The grazing area can be enclosed utilising various different fencing materials. One can use wire netting, wire meshing fencing or electric fencing. It should be noted that the fence should be at least between 1mtr to 1.3mtrs high so that the animals cannot gain access over it. Escapement from underneath the fencing should likewise be avoided, which can be prevented by ensuring that the fence is secured low to the ground. You should ensure that the animals respect electric fencing by arranging strips within a reasonable area (not too large an area). |
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