The Alpaca Owners Association held its annual National Conference at the Harrisburg Farm Show Complex, just a mere 45 minutes from Shippensburg. Hundreds of alpacas from around the country came to south central PA to showcase their fleece and to be auctioned off.
After spending the day among these majestic creatures here’s what I learned:
1. Posture is everything!
While I was slouching around the complex looking for food, these guys were standing tall and proud all day.
2. Alpacas are direct descendants of unicorns. And unicorns still exist.
This pink glitter fluff also know as Paunicorn Fluff, is the softest, most magical thing you will ever run your fingers through.
3. Long hair don’t care!
90 percent of North American alpacas are teddy bear Huacayas, with short, curly, fluffy fiber. The other 10 percent are Suris, who rock long, silky fibers.These Suris, who came all the way from Nebraska, were flaunting some serious lustrous locks. I was jealous.
4. Every moment is a Kodak moment
Forget what you’ve been told about not looking directly into the camera. This fierce alpaca locked eyes with the lens and it couldn’t have been more glorious.
5. Don’t sell yourself (or you hair) short
Stuffed animals for sale at the show cost anywhere from $50 to $300. Yes, $300.Why? Because they are made from the alpaca fibers and no matter how much you deep condition your old teddy bear, he will never be as soft as these.
6. Friendship transcends race/hair/breed
This photo perfectly illustrates a Huacaya (second) and Suri (front) alpaca co-existing.Also, this photo proves it’s totally OK and not narcissistic to have a rug with you and your friends portraits embroidered on it.
7. Don’t talk to strangers
While alpacas are generally friendly creatures, they will keep their distance. Until you earn their trust expect a few cold shoulders.Also, the cute baby talk that may work on your dog will get you nothing but a “not amused” stare from these guys.
8.Ombre is still “in”
Perhaps the original trendsetters, alpacas often have different tones in their fibers, creating the perfect ombre.
9. Thick hair is a blessing and a curse
Pro: everyone is jealous of your thick mane. Con: everyone is jealous of your thick mane #drama
10. The world is your runway
Haters to the left! Strut, strut, strut!
11. My wardrobe is not complete