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| Alpacas in the UK |
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 Alpacas have been in the U.K. and Europe since the middle of the 19th century, mostly in zoos. Thus the first privately-owned alpacas in England were surplus zoo stock, and these formed the foundation of several early alpaca herds, including this. In 1989, when Bozedown Alpacas was established, there were only about 150 alpacas in the UK. Wider interest was stirred when a group of 300 huacaya alpacas was imported form Chile in 1995.
With Bozedown Alpacas first selection of breeding stock from Peru in 1998 - the first Peruvians in Europe - came the chance for Bozedown and other breeders to tap into the advanced alpaca genetics which the Peruvians had already developed for their thriving alpaca fibre industry.
In 2005 there are now about 14,000 alpacas in the UK. Many breeders now compete for prizes at Agricultural Shows around the country. The competition is very strong, with many British alpacas now of World Class quality. Bozedown Alpacas, along with our clients, between us share many of the Champion prizes and placings.
Many breeders, when they have their first alpacas sheared, want to own and/or give as gifts garments made from their own alpacas’ fleeces, Many breeders have their own alpaca fibre processed into yarn by one of the small mills which cater for them. They then have this yarn made up into end product. Some mills are buying the fleece to produce various end products. Currently about 30 tons of fibre is produced annually in the UK, and this amount will continue to grow. As the tonnage increases, it should be possible to have a viable Co-operative through economies of scale.
Farming Diversification
The growth possibilities for alpaca farming are very strong, and even a small foundation herd can grow in a few years. The current prices of alpacas reflect the demand for high quality breeding stock on which the future of the U.K. alpaca fibre industry will be built.
Bozedown females and stud males are in demand as breeding stock for serious breeders. Young pet quality males are also in demand as exotic, low-maintenance pasture trimmers for the many owners of small acreages who prefer not to breed, but who appreciate the beauty and tranquillity these intelligent, eco-friendly animals impart. |
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