The History of the Alpaca

The alpaca is a member of the South American camelid family, which is closely related to the more familiar Asian and African camels. South American camelids include the llama as well as the alpaca. The ancestor of the camelid family actually originated in the North American southwest approximately 50 million years ago and then migrated to South America, Asia and Northern Africa. These camelid forefathers then became extinct in North America. Isn't it ironic that after millions of years, alpacas are finding their way back to North America?

There are two basic types of alpacas developed by the Incas - the huacaya and the suri. The huacaya is the more common and is easily recognized by its fuzzier look. The huacaya fiber grows straight out from its body, and is characterized by its crimp. The suri alpaca has fiber that hangs from its body in silky, pencil-sized ringlets.

Although there are two distinctly different fiber types, both the huacaya and suri have essentially the same body structure. Thus, the determination of whether an alpaca is a huacaya or suri is based upon the characteristics of its fiber. The breeding of two huacayas will invariably produce a huacaya. However, the breeding of two suris will occasionally produce a huacaya. The crossing of a huacaya and a suri can produce unpredictable results.

There are minor differences within the huacaya population. Alpacas imported from Peru generally have greater density, those imported from Bolivia generally have greater luster, and those imported from Chile generally have stronger color. All have the capability of producing fine fiber. Obviously, it is our challenge to breed for a North American alpaca which combines all of these wonderful qualities. We must judge each animal on its own individual merit and breed to improve where possible.

For more information on alpacas please try The Alpaca Owners and Breed Association