Have you ever been charmed by fluffy alpacas? These lovely animals have a long history in the UK, arriving in the 19th century, and have been popular ever since. If you're curious about alpacas' love lives, their mating habits and the arrival of their cute babies are quite interesting. From the quiet hums of a mother-to-be to the lively play of newborns, alpaca births are a joy to see. Plus, for those who care about eco-friendly fashion, Alpaca Apparel ensures these adorable animals are treated well. So, whether you're an alpaca fan or simply enjoy a good animal tale, there's much to discover about alpaca breeding.
Alpaca breeding in the UK has grown a lot since these charming animals first came here. Let's look into the interesting history of alpacas in the UK, their special mating ways, and the happy process of pregnancy and birth.
Alpaca History in the UK
Alpacas first came to the UK in the 19th century, brought for the wool trade. These South American animals quickly became favourites among British farmers and animal lovers.
At first, alpacas were kept mainly for their soft fleece. But as people discovered their gentle nature and low environmental impact, more started keeping them as pets and livestock.
By the late 20th century, breeding alpacas had become a booming industry in the UK. Now, there are thousands of alpacas across the country, with breeders aiming to enhance the quality of British alpaca herds.
Alpaca Mating Facts
Alpacas have some truly unique mating behaviours. Unlike other farm animals, they can mate any time of the year.
Female alpacas, called hembras, release an egg in response to mating, not on a regular cycle. Male alpacas, called machos, make a special sound during mating.
Interestingly, alpacas often mate lying down, a behaviour called cushqui, which can last 5 to 50 minutes, with an average time of about 20 minutes.
Alpaca Pregnancy and Births
Alpaca pregnancies usually last about 11.5 months, making it one of the longest among domesticated animals. During this period, the mother needs extra care and good food.
As birth time nears, the mother might become restless, urinate frequently, and have swollen teats. Most alpacas give birth during the day, likely a way to avoid predators.
The birth, called unpacking, usually takes 30 minutes to 2 hours. The newborn alpaca, called a cria, typically weighs 6-8 kg and can stand and nurse within an hour, showing the amazing resilience of these charming animals.
Here at Alpaca Apparel HQ we have been fortunate enough to welcome 8 cria to our herd after a successful mating season last spring with our two stud males. Follow us on Instagram to keep up to date with the antics of the little ones!