My husband and I are thinking of buying a couple of alpacas and are wondering about what we should expect to pay -- these animals range hugely in cost (from under a grand for a gelding to upwards of $25k for an award-winning sire). We'd like to wind up with a couple of mild-mannered animals for our kids to tend to, with quality wool that we can sell -- not a huge operation or a significant source of income, just a hobby and some extra cash. Any thoughts? Thanks ladies!
That can be a loaded question. I have raised alpaca's along with many other exotic fiber animals and here are some of my thoughts. You can get some great quality fiber boys for around $500.00. Learn all you can about the fiber before purchasing because once you have the animal you can not really change that fiber except at the carding machine by adding different things to bump up the price. I do not know what experience you have with fiber but if you do not know much find yourself someone who does and does not want to sell you a animal. Then have that person go with you to evaluate the animal. Too bad you are not closer or I surely would offer. I would say also purchase - white, gray or black animals. Those fibers sell the quickest. Browns are too many and not as quickly purchased because they do have limits as to what we can dye them and what folks like to wear in colors. Also, you might look for package deal or even geldings - if you are not wishing to do breeding there are wonderful ways to get into alpacas without spending much.
I hope this helps some and I am very willing to assist in anyway I can. Good luck
Grace Gerber Larkspur Funny Farm and Fiber Art Studio
Alpaca Info
Posted - Aug 24 2010 : 07:51:37 AM
