Huacaya Alpaca
Suri Alpaca
| Feature | Huacaya | Suri |
|---|---|---|
| Fleece structure | Crimpy, wool-like | Long, silky, and locks or drapes |
| Fiber growth | Perpendicular to the body, creating a fluffy teddy bear look | Grows parallel to the body in pencil-like locks |
| Luster (shine) | Moderate; more matte due to crimp | High natural sheen and silkiness |
| Density | Typically denser due to crimp and volume | Less dense but heavier per inch due to lock structure |
| Fiber use | Ideal for knitting yarns, felting, and bulkier textiles | Best for weaving, fine garments, and draping fabrics |
| Shearing frequency | Annually | Annually, but careful handling needed to preserve locks |
| Global population | ~90% of all alpacas | ~10% of all alpacas |
| Genetic traits | Dominant gene for fleece type | Recessive gene, more complex breeding |
| Color variety | Broad color range — 22 recognized colors | Diverse, but fewer dark/black Suris |
| Temperament | Generally calm, curious, and easy to halter train | More aloof, reserved, and sensitive to touch |
| Handling | Easier to manage for beginners | Gentler handling needed to preserve locks |
| Grooming needs | Low maintenance | Greater care to prevent matting/dirt buildup |
| Commercial demand | Higher volume and accessibility | Niche but highly valued in luxury markets |
| Product versatility | Suited for wide range of products | Preferred for high-end fashion, woven items |
| Show preparation | Easier due to volume and coverage | Time-consuming; relies on lock uniformity |
| Breeding value | More breeders and genetic lines available | Fewer lines, greater potential for rarity appeal |
| Cold weather | Better insulation due to loft | May need extra protection |
| Hot weather | Can overheat with dense fleece | Manages heat better but still needs management |
| Humidity issues | Less prone to mildew or rot | Locks can trap moisture; higher risk |
| Spinning style | Woolen (airy, fuzzy) | Worsted (smooth, strong) |
| End product | Lofty knits, outerwear, felting | Fine woven garments, fashion, lacework |
| Fiber grading | By crimp, density, micron count | By lock structure, luster, fineness |
| Processing difficulty | Easier to card and spin | Requires delicate handling |
| Conformation focus | Density, uniform crimp, coverage | Lock definition, luster, uniformity |
| Judging standards | Crimp style, staple length, uniformity | Lock structure, luster, and fineness |
| Breeder challenges | Maintaining fleece uniformity and density | Maintaining lock consistency and luster |