Farming & Ranching Alpacas: What You Need to Know

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the topic of ranching alpacas, exploring various aspects such as terminology, market conditions, animal behavior, and personal experiences related to alpaca farming. Participants share insights on the economic viability and characteristics of alpacas, as well as anecdotal evidence from their local areas.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question whether the term "farming" or "ranching" is more appropriate for alpacas.
  • There are claims that the market for alpacas can be highly volatile, with references to past experiences of financial loss.
  • Participants note that alpacas are perceived to have a lower upkeep cost and are less vulnerable to infections compared to sheep.
  • Some express mixed feelings about the odor of alpacas, with differing opinions on their temperament compared to llamas.
  • There are mentions of the high prices for alpacas, with some participants citing figures as high as $80,000 for prize animals.
  • Personal anecdotes about local alpaca farms and their characteristics are shared, including their ability to handle cold weather.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the terminology of "farming" versus "ranching." There are also varying opinions on the behavior and smell of alpacas, as well as differing perspectives on the economic aspects of alpaca ownership.

Contextual Notes

Some statements rely on personal experiences and local market conditions, which may not be universally applicable. The discussion includes anecdotal evidence and subjective opinions that may not reflect broader trends.

DaveC426913
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Ranching alpacas

Anyone know anything about it?
 
Last edited:
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Wouldn't you ranch alpacas, not farm them?

Also, is ranch a verb?
 


lisab said:
Wouldn't you ranch alpacas, not farm them?
OK.[10 char]
 
Ranching is a form of farming.

Alpacas were popular around here for a time. The only comment that I recall hearing about it is that the market is highly volatile. I know that perhaps ten years ago, some people lost their shirts by buying at the peak of the market. I don't know what has happened since then, but I have seen a few alpacas again lately.
 
I know they smell really bad and like to spit. Thats all I know.
 
Topher925 said:
I know they smell really bad and like to spit. Thats all I know.

I thought that was lamas...alpacas are supposed to be sweet-tempered. Also, alpacas don't have lanolin, so they don't smell as bad as lamas.
 
They make nice sweaters.
 
I've heard they cost around $10k per pair. Not for me.
 


DaveC426913 said:
Anyone know anything about it?

Actually, there are a few alpaca farms in my area. Apparently they handle cold really well. They eat relatively little (low cost upkeep), and aren't vulnerable to as many infections as sheep.

http://www.sfalpacas.com/

Oh, and for some reason, they don't smell from about 10 feet away, but once you close that gap... yikes!
 
  • #10
Ivan Seeking said:
Ranching is a form of farming.

Alpacas were popular around here for a time. The only comment that I recall hearing about it is that the market is highly volatile. I know that perhaps ten years ago, some people lost their shirts by buying at the peak of the market. I don't know what has happened since then, but I have seen a few alpacas again lately.

the trick is to get in early

[PLAIN]http://d.yimg.com/a/p/uc/20101119/largeimagecl101119.gif
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #11
There are a few farms by me. I have a friend who helps on one farm and she once told me the owner had sold an alpaca for 20k! A prize alpaca can go for 80k!
 
  • #12
[PLAIN]http://icanhascheezburger.files.wordpress.com/2010/11/funny-puns-your-doom-shall-be-warm-and-soft.jpeg?w=500&h=399

Lol, the URL of that pic has this in it: "your-doom-shall-be-warm-and-soft"
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #13
lisab said:
I thought that was lamas...

Tip from Ogden Nash:

The one-l lama, he's a priest.
The two-l llama, he's a beast.

:wink:
 
  • #14
jtbell said:
Tip from Ogden Nash:

The one-l lama, he's a priest.
The two-l llama, he's a beast.

:wink:

Except in the case of the Fernando.

You look marvelous!
 
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