If you've spent any time around our alpacas, you've probably heard it: a soft, gentle "mmmmm" floating across the pasture. It's one of the sweetest sounds on the farm, and people always ask what it means. The short answer? It depends. Alpacas have a whole language, and once you learn a few words, you'll never watch them the same way again.
The famous hum
Humming is the most common alpaca sound. Alpacas hum when they're curious, when they're a little unsure, when they're content and when they're checking in with each other. Mamas hum to their babies (called cria), and cria hum right back. It's kind of like how we say "hmm" in about a dozen different ways. The tone, the situation and the rest of their body language tell you which hum you're hearing.
The alarm call
If you ever hear a loud, high-pitched, almost donkey-like squeal, that's an alarm call. It means an alpaca has spotted something it thinks might be a threat, like a strange dog or an unfamiliar animal near the fence. The whole herd will usually stop, stare in the same direction and get on high alert. It's very dramatic. Most of the time the "threat" turns out to be nothing, but we appreciate their vigilance.
Clucks, snorts and grumbles
- Clucking: A soft clicking sound, often used by mamas with their cria or as a friendly signal.
- Snorting: Usually a "back off" to another alpaca, often over food or personal space.
- Grumbling: A low, gurgly warning that someone is getting annoyed. If spit is coming, it often comes after this.
Read the ears and tail
Alpaca body language says just as much as their sounds.
- Ears up and forward: Curious and paying attention. This is the face you'll see when they check you out.
- Ears relaxed or slightly to the side: Chill and comfortable.
- Ears pinned flat back: Annoyed. Give that alpaca some space.
- Tail up over the back: Often a sign of alertness, excitement or a dominance message to the herd.
About that spit
Yes, alpacas spit, but it's mostly aimed at other alpacas during squabbles over food or rank. People are rarely the target. If you hear grumbling and see ears pinned back, though, it's smart to step out of the line of fire. Just in case.
Come listen for yourself
The best way to learn alpaca is to spend time with them. Watch how they move as a herd, listen for those hums, and see if you can figure out who's in charge. If you want a closer, slower experience, our Walking with the Alpacas experience is a wonderful way to get to know them. Bring your listening ears!
