As alpaca are primarily bred for their exquisite fleece, shearing is a very important part of the annual calendar.

When to Shear

Most alpaca are shorn once a year, generally in springtime when the weather is warm and before seed heads develop. However they can be shorn at any time of the year providing shelter is available it the weather turns cold. Factors such as showing, age and length of fleece can influence when individual alpaca are shorn, it is important to put the welfare of the alpaca first when planning shearing.

Where to Shear

You can arrange for an alpaca shearer to visit your farm or join in with a group of other breeders and transport your alpacas to a central location. For breeders with a small number it maybe more convenient to work in with other breeders.

How to Shear

Most alpacas are shorn by lying them down on a shearing board or a specialised shearing table and restraining them in a rope harness. This ensures that the animal is kept as still as possible, and can be shorn with the minimum of fuss and without undue stress. An electric hand piece is used with specialised combs and cutters designed for alpaca. Alpaca can also be shorn using hand shears. 

Who can Shear

Many alpaca owners learn to shear their own alpacas, but if this is not your thing there are professional alpaca shearers available in New Zealand and sometimes a sheep shearer can be convinced to do the job. Talk to breeders in your area to see who they use.

Sponsored Link