The Welfare of Alpacas and Llamas in Fiber Production

Alpacas and llamas raised for fiber face welfare challenges from shearing, handling, and social conditions.

Key Facts

The global alpaca fiber market is valued at over $300 million annually
Investigations have documented stressful and rough shearing practices on some farms
Alpacas and llamas are highly social and suffer from inadequate social groups
Shearing stress can be significantly reduced through skilled, calm handling and proper restraint

Welfare Considerations

Alpaca and llama welfare in fiber production is largely unregulated and welfare quality varies enormously between operations. Shearing is an acutely stressful experience for these animals — investigations have documented rough restraint, rough shearing causing cuts, and shearers working too quickly for animal welfare. Skilled shearing, while taking longer, dramatically reduces animal stress. Social housing requirements are often inadequate. The premium market for alpaca fiber creates economic room for welfare investments that the industry has been slow to make.

What You Can Do

Choose alpaca fiber products from certified ethical sources
Advocate for welfare standards in alpaca and llama farming
Support shearing skill training programs that include animal welfare components
Engage with retailers about their alpaca fiber supply chain welfare requirements