Alpacas are farmed for their soft fiber across South America, Australia, and beyond. Welfare standards vary widely, and video investigations have documented serious abuses in some operations.
The alpaca fiber industry presents a complex welfare picture. In the best operations, shearing is quick, low-stress, and performed by skilled handlers. In problematic operations, rough restraint, aggressive shearing practices, and poor handling cause significant fear and injury. Alpacas are vocal when distressed and resist forceful handling, which can escalate into dangerous situations for both animals and handlers. Ethical sourcing requires transparency about shearing methods, handling training, and facility conditions throughout the supply chain.