Alpacas, also known as vicuñas, are a group of South American camelids that belong to the genus Alpacas and the family Camelidae. They are native to the Andes mountain range in Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Colombia. Alpacas are related to the guinea pig and capybara, but are much larger, with adult alpacas reaching weights of up to 250 pounds.
Alpacas have a unique physical appearance, with their most distinctive feature being their long, silky fur that can be up to 30 inches long. They have a pink coloration, with black stripes across their backs and legs. Alpacas have large, expressive eyes and small, alert ears. They also have a long, prehensile tail that can be over a meter in length.
Alpacas are herbivores, primarily subsisting on grasses and other vegetation. They are social animals, living in groups of up to 20 individuals. They communicate through a series of vocalizations, including moos, snorts, and whistles.
Alpacas have been domesticated and distributed worldwide, and are now raised primarily for their meat, fiber, and milk. They are also used for riding and racing, and are a popular tourist attraction. Despite being known as alpacas, these animals are not related to the deer family, but rather are part of the camelid family, which also includes camels, goats, and antelopes.