Ted and Rowan

Dead Cute

Brief and very boring post……. 

Last Saturday on a glorious Wairarapa afternoon, our ‘neighbours’ dropped off our new livestock, Ted and Rowan, the Alpacas. They were led by halter to the ‘South Field’ where they quickly settled in but not before a little mock fighting. Within 15 minutes they had sorted out any dominance issues and began to graze on our lush pasture. Alpacas are hardy creatures and low maintenance. They require no specialised shelter and by preference are happy to brave the elements. Our only concern is the Wairarapa Summer which is notoriously hot and dry. Temperatures in the high 30s are not uncommon. Luckily, we have an extensive tree line of tall Aussie Gum trees to provide shelter from the heat of the day. Also, we shall have them sheared of their fine fleece. Apparently, Alpaca wool is of high quality and much sort after. So far, our new additions appear content to stay in their allotted field although the top end is not fenced off from the rest of the property. I suspect they will prefer their pasture due to the thick grass cover. All other grassy areas are kept short and manageable. If they do decide to go ‘walkabout’ they will not be able to vacate the property because of an unbroken perimeter fence. However, we are not sure whether the little buggers will take a culinary fancy to our extensive and well-groomed flower beds. More importantly, I’m a little worried that they might graze our veggie gardens. If it becomes a problem I’ll have to get off my lazy arse and secure the field at the Eastern end.

So, there we have it. Livestock at last with the option to add another Alpaca. I suspect we will take on the third critter as they appear easy to maintain. Next on the list is a brace of chucks. Just need to clear out the hen house prior to introducing chickens. I reckon four will keep the two of us awash in eggs for a lifetime. The intention is to become self-sufficient in vegetables, fruit and salad with the odd rabbit or two to fulfil our craving for free meat. Well, that’s the plan unless I completely screw it all up- let’s wait and see.