Why Alpacas Are the Most Lovable, Low-Impact Animals You’ve Never Met

alpacasjilliby
Jul 14
2 min read

At Iris Lodge Alpacas on the NSW Central Coast, we welcome families, schools, and groups from all walks of life to meet our gentle herd. But beyond their curious faces and fluffy fleece lies an incredible story of sustainability, personality, and connection. Whether you’re planning a visit or simply want to learn more, here’s why alpacas have captured so many hearts—and how you can meet them up close.

🦙 So, What Is an Alpaca?

Alpacas are members of the camelid family, native to the Andes Mountains. Often confused with llamas, alpacas are smaller, fluffier, and bred for their super-soft fleece. At Iris Lodge, we care for two types of alpacas:

Huacaya – like a cuddly teddy bear with cloud-like fleece
Suri – with long, silky locks that drape gracefully

They’re environmentally friendly, gentle on the land, and have padded feet that don’t damage soil—making them perfect for our sustainable paddocks.

💚 Their Personality Will Surprise You

Shy yet curious, alpacas are incredibly expressive. They hum to each other, communicate with ear and tail gestures, and bond deeply with their herd. Some are bold and will nuzzle your hand for snacks, while others observe quietly from a distance. The more time you spend with them, the more you see their unique personalities shine.

🏡 How We Care for Our Alpacas

At Iris Lodge, our alpacas are treated like family. We don’t shear for profit or breed commercially. Instead, we provide:

Clean, rotational paddocks
Shade and rainwater collection
Nutrient-rich feed and guest treats
Daily health checks and enrichment

It’s part of our commitment to ethical, eco-certified tourism and sustainable farming practices.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Experiences with Alpacas

What makes our farm unique is that everyone can get involved. Kids, grandparents, people with disabilities—our paddocks are open and welcoming. From Brunch with Alpacas to school holiday experiences, the joy of walking, feeding, and connecting with these gentle animals stays with you long after you leave.

It’s common to hear a child shout, “Can we get one, Mum?” And after a few minutes in the paddock, you just might want one too.

🌱 Why They’re Growing in Popularity

Beyond being adorable, alpacas are practical. They’re efficient grazers, require little feed, and produce nutrient-rich fertiliser (which we compost onsite). Their fleece is hypoallergenic, biodegradable, and water-resistant—making them one of the most sustainable animals on the planet.