5 Amazing Things to Know About Alpacas

Alpacas vs Llamas

Alpacas and llamas are often confused for one another, but there are actually quite a few differences between these two animals. The main differences between alpacas and llamas are:

• Alpacas are smaller than llamas,
• alpacas have softer fur, and
• alpacas are more docile than llamas.

Also, llamas are more individual, and can be described as ill-tempered.

Read on, and then come and meet your favourite alpaca after your hot air balloon flight. 

Here are 5 more quick facts to know about these wonderful creatures.

1. Alpacas are gentle creatures that can be tamed quite easily

As well as being adorable to look at, alpacas are also gentle creatures that can be quite easily tamed. Native to the Andes Mountains in South America, alpacas have been domesticated for centuries and make excellent pets. These animals were traditionally used as pack animals or for their wool, and although they are related to llamas, alpacas are much smaller and have a more docile temperament.

An average alpaca stands approximately three feet tall at the shoulder and weighs between 45 to 90 kilograms (one hundred and two hundred pounds).

2. They come in a variety of colours, including white, black, and brown

Alpacas come in a variety of colours, the most common being white, but they can also be brown, black, or grey.

Alpacas have long, thick fur that is very soft to the touch. This wool is often used to make clothing and other textiles. Traditionally, the best place to see the different types of alpaca wool products is at a local market in Peru, however there are now many outlets in Australia, the United States, and Europe.

3. Alpacas are social animals and live in herds

Alpacas are very social animals and typically live in herds of between 10 and 20 individuals. These animals are very curious creatures and love to explore their surroundings. When they feel threatened, alpacas will often make a loud, bleating noise to warn the others in their herd.

4. Alpacas are herbivores and extremely efficient!

Alpacas are herbivores, which means that they only eat plants. These animals primarily graze on grass, but they will also sometimes eat hay, leaves, and other vegetation in the wild.

Alpacas are able to digest their food very efficiently and as a result, they produce very little waste!

5. Alpacas have been known to attack predators when necessary

Did you know that alpacas have been known to attack predators such as coyotes and mountain lions when they feel threatened? These animals are not afraid to defend themselves, and alpacas are also excellent protectors of sheep and other animals, as they will often chase away predators that try to attack.

Now you know a bit more about these lovely animals, come and meet them in person after a glorious hot air balloon flight over the Gold Coast Hinterland.

So what are you waiting for? Book your hot air balloon ride today!

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