Llamas and Alpacas on the Homestead

[BYH Project Manager]

Llamas and alpacas often get grouped together, but anyone who’s spent time with them knows they’ve got very different personalities. Llamas are known for their bold, protective nature (and yes, their dramatic spit when they’re unhappy), while alpacas tend to be more gentle, shy, and prized for their soft fleece. Both can play a role on the homestead, whether as livestock guardians, fiber animals, or simply as quirky companions that keep everyone entertained.

Have you raised llamas or alpacas before? Or maybe you’ve thought about adding them to your herd?

Let’s chat:

• Do you prefer llamas or alpacas, and why?
• Have you used llamas as livestock guardians, and how effective were they?
• If you keep alpacas, what’s your experience with fiber harvesting?
• What’s the funniest or most surprising thing one of yours has ever done?

Whether you’ve got a whole herd or just a curiosity about them, your insights and stories will make this discussion a fun and informative one.

So, what’s your take on llamas and alpacas?

 

[SageHill]

They are both so cute. I thought about alpaca a couple years ago and checked into them - locals with them said that they are prone to predator attacks (coyotes) so I didn't get any. A bit pricey as well - but oh so cute.