The alpaca is a domesticated species of South American camelid, closely related to the llama. They are primarily raised for their soft, luxurious fleece, which is used to make various textiles. Alpacas are smaller than llamas, standing about 3 feet tall at the shoulder and weighing between 100 to 200 pounds. Alpacas are social animals that live in herds and are known for their gentle and friendly nature. They communicate through a variety of sounds, including humming and clicking. These animals are herbivores, primarily grazing on grass and other vegetation, and they thrive in the high-altitude regions of the Andes Mountains.