Let’s clear this one up about miniature alpacas
We get asked this a lot….. “Do you have miniature alpacas?” And while it’s a fun idea, the short answer is… no, not really. Miniature alpacas aren't a recognised breed. However, the rise in popularity of miniature livestock, such as tiny goats, pint-sized cows, and teacup pigs, has sparked some confusion. So let’s break it down.
Where did this idea come from?
The miniature livestock craze is partly a mix of practicality and clever marketing. Smaller animals are often promoted as easier to manage, ideal for hobby farms or backyards, and, let’s be honest, they are all adorable. So it’s no surprise people assume alpacas come in mini versions too.
Are they confusing alpacas with llamas?
Probably. Llamas and alpacas are cousins, but they’re not the same but from the camelid family. Llamas are taller, heavier, and generally more robust. Alpacas are smaller in comparison, so sometimes what’s called a "mini alpaca" is just a young or petite adult, or someone mistaking an alpaca for a small llama. And no, alpaca owners do not love being asked if their alpacas are llamas. It's like calling a labradoodle a rottweiler.. (Friendly warning here.)
Different types of alpacas, not sizes
There are two types of alpacas: Huacaya, the fluffy teddy bear type most people recognise, and the rarer Suri, which has silky lock-style fleece. They look different and feel different, but both are alpacas. No mini version, just different fibre styles and body shapes.
But I saw one on the internet...
Yep, some alpacas are just smaller. That could be due to age, breeding, or health. But unless it's a deliberate and ethically managed breeding program focused on maintaining fleece quality and animal wellbeing, calling them "miniatures" is mostly a gimmick.
So, no mini alpacas but plenty of majestic, fleece-covered charmers in all shapes, colours, and personalities. And trust us, once you've met one, you'll be glad they come full-sized.
This is a miniature Alpaca?
No. This alpaca is a cria and is only approx 3-4 months old. He is a Huacaya Alpaca.
Adult Huacaya Adult
Adult sized alpaca. Can be up to approx 60-80 kg. More delicate features compared to a llama.
Around 1.5 m tall.
We call the huacaya alpaca the teddy bear fleece.
Adult Suri Alpaca
Are approx. 70 kg. Fawn Suri Adults.
Suris have a different body shape from huacaya, besides the fleece being draped differently.
They tend to have longer legs. As the fleece draped in the middle of their spine they can look ‘slimmer’, compared to the Huacaya alpaca. I find the suri’s to be more athletic, energetic and very expressive personalities.
I have a couple here at Little Valley Farm, and they are more aware of the surroundings and call the herd together if there is a potential threat such as an eagle or a fox.
Llama
I had to use a stock image as we don’t have llamas here. They are very different.
Note the banana ear shape and the longer face. They are quite large compared to alpacas and can weigh approximately 150-200 kg. Height approx 1.8 m tall at the head.
LLamas have coarser outer fleece and softer undercoat, and are generally used more for their strength than their fibre.
Traditionally, pack animals are alpacas, which are more fibre animals.
Llamas are wonderful, but due to their size and mine (I am petite), it's too much for me to handle.
Shall I get an alpaca or a llama?
If you're still unsure about the differences between alpacas and llamas and would like to attend one of our monthly alpaca workshops in the Hunter Valley, join us! We are conveniently located just 90 minutes from Sydney and one hour from the Central Coast. You can view our alpaca workshop dates and book your spot in advance online here.
Thanks, Daniela
Little Valley Farm - Alpaca Farm Hunter Valley, Wollombi Valley
Daniela of Little Valley Farm with one of the brown crias (baby alpaca under 6 months old). alpaca.
