Meet alpacas in Massachusetts during National Alpaca Farm Days

Massachusetts residents can get up-close and meet alpacas during National Alpaca Farm Days on Sept. 23-24.

There are multiple farms in Massachusetts participating in the unique weekend. These include Forever Free Alpaca Farm in Cummington, Harvard Alpaca Ranch, Hill Crest Alpacas in North Dartmouth and Island Alpaca Co of Martha’s Vineyard.

The weekend includes meeting the alpacas, feeling the fleece, learning about raising and breeding the animals, learning about their products and more.

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But the Alpaca Owners Association warns, alpacas can spit.

They suggest approaching the animals slowly and calmly, talking in a calm soothing voice, touch the top of its back, shoulders or side of its neck and talk to the handlers about any specifics.

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Don’t alpacas head, hindquarters, tail, or toes, hug the alpaca or stand behind them.

“Alpacas are gentle animals and love to have their picture taken,” the website states.

For more about the weekend, click here.