When people hear that alpacas compete in shows, they're usually a little surprised. Then they're curious. What exactly makes one alpaca better than another? Isn't every alpaca adorable? (Yes. Obviously.) But in the show ring, judges look at a lot more than cuteness. Here's a peek at what goes into an award-winning alpaca.
Two big things: fleece and conformation
Most alpaca judging comes down to two main areas. The first is the fleece, since alpacas are raised for their beautiful fiber. The second is conformation, which is a fancy word for how the alpaca is built. A great alpaca has both: fantastic fiber on a strong, healthy, well-built body.
What judges look for in fleece
Judges often part the fleece with their hands to look closely at the fiber. Here's some of what they're checking:
- Fineness: How fine (thin) each fiber is. Finer fiber usually feels softer.
- Density: How much fiber is packed into the skin. Dense fleece feels thick and full.
- Uniformity: Whether the fiber is consistent in fineness, length and color across the body.
- Crimp or character: In Huacaya alpacas, crimp is the natural waviness in the fiber. Good, even crimp is a big plus.
- Handle: How the fleece feels to the touch. Soft, smooth and silky is the goal.
- Brightness: Healthy fleece has a nice natural brightness or luster.
- Guard hair: Coarse, prickly hairs mixed into the fleece. Less is better.
What judges look for in conformation
Conformation is all about structure and soundness. Judges watch the alpaca stand and move, and they look for things like:
- Straight, strong legs: Legs should be well-placed and sturdy.
- A level back: A strong, straight topline.
- Balance: The neck, legs and body should look in proportion.
- A correct bite: Alpacas have no top front teeth, just a firm dental pad, and their bottom teeth should meet it properly.
- Smooth movement: A sound alpaca moves easily and naturally.
Huacaya and Suri
Huacaya and Suri alpacas are judged in separate classes, since their fleece is so different. Huacaya fleece is fluffy and crimpy, while Suri fleece hangs in long, silky locks. All of the alpacas at Eagle Eye Farm are Huacaya except Viper, our one Suri.
Our proudest moments
We put a lot of love and care into our herd, and we're so proud of where it has taken us. Eagle Eye Farm was named the #1 small alpaca farm in the United States in 2022 by the Alpaca Owners Association, and the #1 medium alpaca farm in 2023. For a farm that got its first alpacas in 2018, that recognition means the world to us.
Healthy alpacas come first
Ribbons are wonderful, but they're not the whole story. A good alpaca is a healthy, well-cared-for alpaca. Good food, clean pastures, regular care and plenty of buddies are the foundation of everything we do.
See an award-winning herd up close
Now that you know what judges look for, come see if you can spot it yourself. Check our website for current tours, and visit our FAQ page for answers to common questions. Who knows, you might just become an alpaca fleece expert.
