2025/2026 Alpaca Owners Guide

Photo courtesy of Lucky Us Farm

Q: Do I need to purchase a registered alpaca? A: In short — yes. Anytime you invest money, it’s wise to take every step to protect the value of that investment. Purchasing registered alpacas helps ensure that. Alpaca Owners Association, Inc. (AOA) operates the largest alpaca pedigree registry in the world. While it serves international clients, its core services — pedigree registration and member support — are focused in the United States and Canada. AOA is one of the few livestock registries that require every registered animal to be DNA validated against its parents. As a result, buyers place a higher value on AOA-registered alpacas. Q: How much does an alpaca cost? A: Registered alpacas can cost anywhere from several hundred to tens of thousands of dollars. Price depends on quality, genetics, age, and gender. Whether for fiber, breeding, or agritourism, it’s important to choose animals that fit your goals. Q: Do people eat alpacas? A: Alpaca meat can be consumed if the animal has not recently received medications and all veterinary withdrawal guidelines have been followed. While alpaca meat is safe when handled properly, it is not a primary product in North

America due to economic factors. It is more commonly eaten in South America, where alpacas are raised in part for meat. In the United States, the USDA has not yet developed formal guidelines for processing alpaca meat, which limits its commercial viability. Q: Are there organized exhibitions and competitions for alpacas? A: Yes. Numerous alpaca shows are held across North America where owners can exhibit their animals and fleeces. AOA certifies regional shows throughout the United States, administers the official rules, trains judges, and supports these events. It also hosts the annual National Halter and Fleece Shows. Q: What is the long term outlook for the market for alpaca fleece? A: Alpaca fiber is valued worldwide as a luxury fiber. This fiber is converted into clothing and accessories that consumers equate with superior quality. Combine this with a well defined marketing program for all aspects of the alpaca industry, and you get a stable and robust industry. 

ALPACA OWNERS GUIDE 2025/2026 | 21