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Ten Reasons to Own Suri Alpacas
1. The Suri Alpaca is rare: It is estimated that the worldwide suri alpaca population is only around 100,000—less than 10% of the total worldwide population of alpacas. In the US, there are currently 13,000 registered Suri Alpacas. This represents about 18% of the total U.S. population. Suri fiber is second only to the Vicuña as the rarest type of processed camelid fiber. Does rarity equate to higher value? It does with other products/commodities. Only time will tell in the alpaca industry, but we’re basing our business plan on it. 2. The Suri Alpaca has an elegant style: Suri fiber locks, made up of high-luster fibers, drape down the sides of the body in a twisted or flat form of various types. There are few animals more beautiful than a suri alpaca running through the pasture; fiber swaying back and forth with every step, catching the sun with its brilliant luster. Suri fiber has a slick hand and softness with exquisite luster. 3. Suri fiber has unique characteristics compared to other natural fibers . One large advantage suri has over cashmere, camel and vicuña is the longer staple length, which means items made from suri will not pill as easily. It has an unusually high tensile strength, which does not diminish with increased fineness, thus making it suitable for industrial processing. No one can question of elegance of a finely tailored suri garment. 4. Suri fiber is in demand: The fiber suri alpacas is coveted by the fashion industry and cherished by the hand spinner. It has the softness of cashmere, the luster of silk, the warmth of silk, the durability of wool and its ability to accept color dyes makes it a favorite of all fiber enthusiasts. Suri fiber blends well with other natural fibers and can be knit, crocheted, or woven. 5. The Suri Alpaca adapts well to climate extremes: Suri fiber forms a part and lies flat down the back of the animal exposing skin along the top line to the elements. This can be a plus in hot climates by allowing more evaporative cooling at the skin. In the winter this same area can allow for a loss of heat. However, several well known and successful suri breeders from northern climates have proven that with proper management techniques, suris adapt quite well to harsh winters. 6. Suri Network Affiliate: Suri breeders have a great resource available to them with membership in the Suri Network. As an affiliate of AOBA, the Suri Network is dedicated to the preservation of promotion of the suri breed. Members can take advantage of marketing, research and educational opportunities all designed to increase knowledge and awareness of this wonderful breed, both to alpaca breeders and the general public. 7. The Suri Breed Standard: The recently adopted U.S. suri breed standard will help the suri alpaca achieve recognition as a production livestock breed. It is difficult to attain such recognition in the U.S livestock industry without a standard that defines a breed. This standard was written with input from many Suri breeders from all over the country who wished to contribute to a standard that will help guide the future development of the suri breed. 8. Suri Network Research: How do we let the world know about the marvelous characteristics of suri fiber? The Suri Network Research Committee actively seeks to identify, fund and conduct research projects that will delineate the unique characteristics of suri fiber, to allow the North American Suri industry to be competitive in the world market. All suri breeders will benefit from this research by means of a more informed and educated textile industry. 9. Suri owners are great people! Our experience tells us that this statement applies to huacaya breeders as well. But, because of the smaller numbers of suri breeders, we think there is closer knit community of suri breeders and a better opportunity for building long-lasting friendships. One of the most enjoyable aspects of participating in alpaca shows is being reunited with friends made over the years. It’s always fun to relax after a long show day with good friends, good food and good drink. 10. Purely Suri Magazine: Suri Network members have access to a great magazine that not only provides quality educational articles for suri breeders, but can also be used as a great marketing tool to give to prospective customers. This high quality publication reflects the high quality standards dedicated suri breeders are striving for in their breeding programs.
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Contributor's Note
This article is one of a series of "top ten" lists of alpaca related topics produced by Heritage Farm. Heritage Farm is a full service alpaca farm in Central Indiana that prides itself in educating the public on the many benefits of owning alpacas.
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Suri Alpacas
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