Fences Fences need to be designed to keep predators out more so than to keep alpacas in.
There are many options to select from. We use high tensile electric wire fence due to durability, appearance, safety, and cost factors. This type of fence runs about $1.00 to $2.00 per foot and installs quickly.
Shelter Alpacas are well protected from the harshness of our winters. Their native habitat is high in the Andes mountains at ten to twelve thousand feet. In adapting to this environment, alpacas have developed a thick insulating blanket which is comprised of millions of extremely fine fibers (the fibers have very small diameters).
Moreover, the hair shafts have a hollow core which traps insulating air. These high tech qualities provide comfort to the animals, and to those who wear garments spun from their fiber.
Summers can be a different matter for an alpaca. During very hot summer days, alpacas require shelter from the sun. A shady area with a good breeze supplemented by electric fans on the hottest days, will usually provide sufficient protection from the heat. An alpaca is typically sheared in early to mid spring which allows it to be cool in the summer. By the time late fall approaches an alpaca will have re-grown enough fiber to be comfortable in the winter.
Many breeders use an inexpensive, three sided enclosure to provide protection from the worst of the winter winds and to provide shade in the summer. High velocity fans work well for air circulation. At the farm we have an animal house with large openings at each end, which allows for good air circulation in the summer. During hot days our alpacas rest inside their house, in front of the fans, only taking leave for an occasional powder behind the barn.
