From page 39
provide them with a balanced
diet and mineral supply.
Healthcare such as
deworming and vaccinations
are similar to those for sheep.
You will need to vaccinate
against Clostridia, Blue
Tongue, Rift Valley Fever,
Botulism and Anthrax. Other
vaccinations might be
necessary depending on the
area you keep them.
They are rewarding to keep
and work with and are small
enough for women to handle.
However, they are prone to
stress, especially if they are
overcrowded. On the other
hand, being herd animals,
they do not thrive on their
own. Depending on available
grazing, one can keep about
eight alpacas per hectare.
facebook.com/gautengsmallholder
LIVESTOCK
warned that owning alpacas
Because they are not indigenous to South
Africa, alpacas must be protected against
indigenous poisonous plants, which they
cannot instinctively recognise
considerably reduces their
productivity. Owners spend
hours watching them,
strolling amongst them and
Alpacas need to be protected Book and Livestock
being entertained by their
from South African poisonous Improvement Association law. antics.
plants. You cannot keep them Devoted alpaca fans caution
in your garden.
that new breeders should be
South Africa is a world
producer of fibre and alpaca
fleece is highly sought after.
There are also taxation
advantages, as their standard
value is the same as sheep.
Breeding alpacas is also useful
in ensuring that your land
remains zoned as agricultural.
There is a growing demand
for neutered males to work
on commercial sheep farms
as herd guards against small
predators. The animal needs
to be 18 – 24 months old
before he starts working.
Alpacas are a registered breed
in South Africa. The SA
Alpaca Breeder's Club is
registered under SA Stud
At their ease ... two of the alpacas at the Walkerville Show
41
www.sasmallholder.co.za