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The value
of alpaca fleece is the economic basis of the future
market for alpacas. An alpaca breeder with a small herd
on small acreage can expect to harvest his animals'
fleece and sell their offspring profitably. Most alpaca
ranchers readily sell their fleece for $2 to $6 an ounce
to local artisans. Each animal on average will produce
five to eight pounds of fleece a year. Domestic fiber is
commonly sold to cottage industries that circulate
around hand spinning and weaving. Producers outside of
South America are beginning to organize wool
co-operatives for the commercial processing of the
fleece. A North American fiber co-op, endorsed by the
Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association (AOBA), provides
a commercial outlet for all breeders. Presently, the
alpaca industry is based on the sale of quality breeding
stock, which demands premium prices. Female alpacas
begin breeding at between 14 and 18 months of age, while
males begin breeding at about three years. The females
produce approximately one baby per year during a
reproductive life of 15-20 years.
The
factors which influence individual alpaca prices include
color, conformation, fleece quality and quantity, age,
and sex. Females sell for more money on average than
males, but herd sire quality males demand the highest
individual prices. Breeders often prefer one alpaca
color to another; however, the heritability of color is
never guaranteed. Correct, well-conformed alpacas sell
for higher prices. Fleece density, uniformity and
fineness also affect the animal's price. The best
combination of fleece, conformation and pedigree will
equate high value and demand for your animals. We
recommend purchasing the best animals for your budget.
The range of value for females is currently between
$12,500 and $40,000. Females with unique attributes have
sold for more than $40,000. Young, unproven high quality
stud prospects routinely sell for between $7,500 and
$25,000, and the highest quality males with unique
characteristics or exceptional offspring on the ground
have sold in excess of $100,000.
Many breeders start with several bred females and
perhaps one male. Other new breeders may elect to start
with several young animals or a breeding pair. There is
an approach suitable for your level of interest and
financial position.
Alpacas are much like diamonds. The market pays a
premium for flawless examples of the breed. |
