You won't want to miss this week's Advocate! We have a fun story about local resident Crystal Sorrell-Amburgey and her alpaca, Reese. The pair recently traveled to local elementary schools for an ag week education initiative.
To gear up for the coverage, here are some fast facts about alpacas:
Alpacas are a member of the camelid family. Typical weight is between 100 to 175 pounds, according to National Geographic.
Sometimes confused with llamas, alpacas are smaller and their ears are short and straight. The ears of a llama are longer and curved.
Alpacas are grazers and they have no front teeth in the top. Instead, according to the internet, they have a dental pad.
The following are some additional facts Crystal Sorrell-Amburgey shared with local students recently:
• Alpacas are shorn once a year in the spring. Reese will be shorn April 18.
• Fiber from alpacas is used to make warm items like socks, sweaters, mittens and even dryer balls.
• Alpaca fiber is naturally flame-resistant.
• Alpacas hum to communicate.
• Alpacas are very curious animals.
• They typically live 15-20 years.
• The burning question, Crystal tells the Advocate, is do they spit? Alpacas will spit to express dominance with other alpacas or protect food. They typically don’t spit at humans unless they feel threatened or stressed.
For a more detailed look at the ag education week initative, see the related story at left.
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