Alpacas, native to the Andean regions of South America, thrive in the high altitudes of countries like Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Chile. These charming animals belong to the camel family and are classified into two breeds: the fluffy, crimped-fleece Huacaya and the silky, straight-fleece Suri. Standing about three feet tall at the shoulder and weighing between 100 to 200 pounds, alpacas are known for their gentle nature and social behavior, often communicating through soft humming sounds.

Primarily valued for their luxurious fleece, alpacas produce wool that is incredibly soft, warm, and hypoallergenic, making it highly sought after in the textile industry. They also serve practical roles beyond fiber production; in some regions, alpacas are used as guard animals to protect livestock like sheep from predators. Their calm and friendly demeanor makes them excellent companions and suitable for therapeutic settings.

Caring for alpacas involves annual shearing to collect their valuable fleece and prevent overheating. These animals have a unique three-chambered stomach that helps them efficiently digest their fibrous diet of grasses. With a lifespan of 15-20 years, alpacas thrive in herds, feeling safest in groups. Environmentally, they are low-impact grazers with padded feet that are gentle on the land, making them an eco-friendly choice for sustainable farming.

Alpacas have found their way to Ireland primarily as exotic livestock for their soft fiber, which is prized for its quality and sustainability in textile production. Additionally, their calm temperament makes them popular among farmers and hobbyists alike for agricultural diversification and eco-friendly practices.