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Things you might not know about Alpacas
For over a decade, Devon Duvets has earned a reputation for our artisan, handcrafted 100% British wool duvets. More recently, we have expanded our product range to include the finest alpaca duvets, woven from high-grade, 100% British alpaca wool. This premium material has been fully endorsed by the British Alpaca Society. Owing to the limited availability of the fibre each year, our alpaca duvets are a sought-after luxury item. Once our stock for the year is sold, we await the next shearing season.For over a decade, Devon Duvets has earned a reputation for our artisan, handcrafted 100% British wool duvets. More recently, we have expanded our product range to include the finest alpaca duvets, woven from high-grade, 100% British alpaca wool. This premium material has been fully endorsed by the British Alpaca Society. Owing to the limited availability of the fibre each year, our alpaca duvets are a sought-after luxury item. Once our stock for the year is sold, we await the next shearing season.
The Origins of Alpacas
These intriguing creatures hail from South America, specifically the Puna region of Peru, where they were domesticated around 6,000 years ago. Part of the camel family, alpacas aren't suitable for riding like their larger cousins. It wasn't until the mid-1800s that the first alpacas were brought into the UK, but their numbers didn't surge until the early 1990s. The primary appeal of these animals was their adorable appearance and the luxurious softness of alpaca wool, or as it's technically known, alpaca fleece.
A Deep Dive into Alpaca Facts
With a keen interest in these captivating creatures, Ellie from our customer service team has conducted extensive research to shed light on some lesser-known alpaca facts.
The Two Breeds of Alpacas
To begin with, it's important to note that there are two breeds of alpacas – the Huacaya and the Suri. Of the two breeds, the Huacaya is the more common, accounting for 90% of alpacas globally. A Huacaya's fleece is characterised by long, soft fibres and it comes in a staggering array of 22 different colours. This dense fleece boasts an impressive set of qualities: it's naturally breathable, hypoallergenic, and fire retardant.
Alpaca Wool in Our Duvets
At Devon Duvets, we select white alpaca wool for our duvets. This is because the light colour doesn't show through the duvet casing in the same way darker colours can. Moreover, we exclusively use natural white alpaca wool. This allows us to avoid using bleaching agents or harsh chemicals to achieve a white hue in our duvets.
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Social Creatures
Alpacas are highly social animals. They thrive in groups and don't fare well in isolation. As a result, many alpaca owners ensure that these animals are kept in groups of three or more.
The Spit of Alpacas
Interestingly, alpacas have a peculiar defence mechanism: they can spit up to 10 feet! Despite being toothless in the upper front part of their mouths, these animals are capable of this feat, although instances of them spitting at humans are quite rare.
Communicative Humming
In terms of communication, alpacas have a unique way of expressing themselves. They hum, haw, and make 'orgle' sounds. They can also produce a loud screech when they feel threatened.
Breeding Patterns and Baby Alpacas
Female alpacas are ready to mate and breed when they are a year old, while male alpacas take longer to mature, usually becoming ready to mate around three years of age. Baby alpacas, adorably known as 'crias', are usually born after an 11-month gestation period, meaning alpacas typically breed only once a year.
Hygienic Habits
Known for their cleanliness, alpacas are interestingly self-trained to use a specific spot for their bathroom needs. They will line up to use these communal areas, reflecting their disciplined and clean nature.
The Alpaca Bodyguards
In addition to their luxurious fleece, alpacas also have a protective nature that makes them great guardians for sheep flocks, especially during the lambing season. A single alpaca can protect a flock of 50 – 60 sheep by alerting them to predators and chasing off threats. It's for this reason that many British sheep farmers keep a few alpacas with their flock.
The Value of Alpacas
Given their many unique qualities, it's unsurprising that alpacas are highly valued. The highest price ever paid for an alpaca stands at a staggering £500,000. Pet alpacas typically cost between £500-£1,000, while 'show' alpacas can fetch anywhere from £3,000 to £20,000.
Alpaca Meat and the Food and Agriculture Organization
In addition to their fleece, alpacas are also known for their meat. Alpaca meat is lean, tender and high in protein, making it a desirable food source. The Food and Agriculture Organization recognizes alpaca meat for its nutritional value.In addition to their fleece, alpacas are also known for their meat. Alpaca meat is lean, tender and high in protein, making it a desirable food source. The Food and Agriculture Organization recognizes alpaca meat for its nutritional value.
Wild Alpacas and the Alpaca Owners Association
Wild alpacas can still be found in the Andes mountains, though most alpacas in the UK and other countries are domesticated and registered with the Alpaca Owners Association. This organisation provides support and resources for alpaca owners.
THREE Duvet's Alpaca Offerings
Our Sister Company THREE Duvets' now has alpaca duvet sections, and are available in two weights: lightweight (3-6 togs) and medium weight (7 – 10 togs). Each section is handcrafted individually by our skilled seamstresses right here in Devon. If you're curious to learn more about these exquisite products, feel free to get in touch at 01752 344399. We are always ready to assist with any queries. Alpacas might be one of the most intriguing and unique animals in the world, but their benefits extend far beyond their charming looks. They are an asset to the environment, a boon to farmers, and a luxury to those who appreciate the quality of their beautiful fleece.
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