Llama and Alpaca Welfare in the Fibre Industry

Llamas and alpacas are farmed globally for fibre and increasingly as companion animals. Their welfare in shearing, transport, and confinement varies significantly by operation.

Key Facts

Global alpaca population exceeds 4 million, primarily in Peru and Bolivia
Alpaca fibre is one of the most prized natural fibres globally for its softness and hypoallergenic properties
PETA campaigns have highlighted welfare concerns in shearing practices in South America
Alpacas and llamas are highly social herd animals that should never be kept alone
They are sensitive to poor handling and can become chronically fearful with improper management
Shearing is necessary for welfare in domesticated animals that cannot self-regulate fleece growth

Welfare Considerations

Undercover footage from alpaca shearing operations in South America has shown animals being forcibly restrained with leg ropes and handled roughly during shearing — a stressful process made significantly worse by poor technique and rough handling. Well-managed shearing using calm restraint, skilled shearers, and short handling times significantly reduces stress. Alpacas kept alone without conspecifics develop chronic stress and health problems. Fibre certification schemes are emerging but coverage of South American production — which dominates the global supply — remains limited. Llamas and alpacas kept as companion animals require the same species-specific welfare considerations as herd farming contexts.

What You Can Do

Look for alpaca fibre products with supply chain transparency and welfare certification
Support campaigns for welfare certification schemes that include shearing practice standards
Never keep a single llama or alpaca without a companion of the same species
Advocate for independent welfare auditing of South American alpaca farms producing for global markets