Alpaca Shearing 2020

After a postponement of nearly two months due to the COVID-19 pandemic, White Violet Center alpacas finally got sheared on Saturday, June 20. The herd were all quite ready to shed their winter coats. Professional shearers from Alley-Pac Alpaca Shearing out of Fort Collins, CO did an amazing job. Each alpacas was picked up and then gently laid down on the ground where they are strapped down. This ensures the safety of both the animals and humans. It also allows the shearers to work quickly and efficiently which reduces stress on the animal. While they are being sheared each alpaca gets a pedicure and dental check. WVC interns collected the sheared fleece which will be used in a variety of ways after it is cleaned or skirted. Even our newest alpaca, Tony, got a little of his baby fuzz trimmed off!

It’s shearing day. Alpacas patiently wait their turn for a summer haircut.

On hot days Monte likes to cool off in the kiddie pool although it usually has water in it.

Time to get a new hairdo!

Ann Testa preps Jean for her very first shearing.

Slipping the harness on each alpaca so they can be guided to the shearing area.

Stardust patiently waits his turn with Tracy Wilson from Aris Farms

Shearing takes place on the ground. Alpacas are tied down so the animals and humans are both safe.

Interns Alexis Klug and Libby Robinette work alongside the shearers.

What do you think of my new haircut?

Jean shows off her new look.

The male alpacas came to the female barn for shearing this year.

Tony gets his toenails clipped and his baby fuzz trimmed