Jan 12
14
Alpaca Shearing Made Easy
When you begin with an alpaca farm, you will soon see that the major event of the year happens on alpaca shearing day. Most farmers try to finish shearing in a day if they can, in order to keep the labor costs as low as possible. Once the coldest weather has passed, in the early spring, alpaca shearing takes place. Waiting for the warmer weather is very necessary, as the alpacas would not survive extreme weather without their protective coats.
It takes a lot of patience and practice to learn the art of shearing alpacas. It is useful to employ a professional alpaca shearer and his team, especially until you have mastered the art, and even then you might find that it is worth the money to employ professionals because of the time that is saved. Shearing an alpaca must be done in the least stressful manner to the alpaca, and without causing injury to either the alpaca or the shearers. Although some shearers do the job with the alpaca standing up, most prefer to lay the alpaca down on his side. The feet are tethered as well, to prevent injury to the alpaca and the shearers.
Some alpaca males can produce in excess of 10 lbs. (4.5 kg.) of fibre per shearing, but this is exceptional. Most alpacas produce between from 3 – 10 lbs. (1.36 – 4.5 kg.) of fibre each year.
When shearing alpacas, it is best to work in a two-person team. The handler restrains the alpaca, and keeps a firm hand on the alpacas head during the whole shearing process. The other does the shearing. The handler also moves and turns the alpaca as needed so that the shearer can reach all spaces. Some shearers prefer working on a raised table, to eliminate bending over all day. Other shearers work on a clean area on the floor, usually with a rubber mat underfoot.
The alpaca needs to be restrained with belts especially around the feet, to prevent injury to the alpaca and the shearers. After the shearing is complete, it is advisable to blow clean the alpaca, to remove any loose fibres from the coat. It is necessary to wear a mask during the shearing process, to prevent the inhalation of the fine loose fibres. These can cause a respiratory problem.
Remember that to have good quality fibre, these guidelines will help
• If the alpaca is clean to start with, the fibre will need less cleaning after shearing. Blow the alpaca clean with an air cleaner.
• Separate the alpacas by color and shades before shearing begins. This will help with sorting the fibre after shearing is complete.
• While the alpacas are restrained for the shearing is a good time to administer medication, vaccinations, tooth and toenail trimming and any other difficult to administer treatment. This is also a good time to check the over-all health of your alpacas.
By planning this day in the year well, and calling in professional help, you will find that alpaca shearing need not be such a daunting task.
