Alpacas are domesticated animals native to the Andes Mountains in South America, primarily found in Peru, Bolivia, and Chile. They belong to the camelid family, which also includes llamas, guanacos, and vicunas. Alpacas are known for their soft, luxurious fleece, which is used to make various textiles. They are smaller than llamas and have a gentle temperament, making them popular in farming and as pets.
There are two main breeds of alpacas: Huacaya and Suri. Huacayas have fluffy, crimped fleece, while Suris have long, silky hair that hangs in locks. Alpacas are social animals that live in herds and communicate through a variety of sounds. They primarily graze on grass and are known for their efficient digestion, which allows them to thrive in harsh environments.