Building Trust with Alpacas: The Power of Stillness
There’s something truly special about earning the trust of an alpaca. It doesn’t happen overnight—it takes time, patience, and a deep understanding of their nature. Unlike dogs or cats, alpacas won’t instantly warm up to you. They need to feel safe, and the best way to show them you are no threat is through stillness and quiet presence.
Every day, twice a day, I sit with my alpacas. I don’t speak, I don’t make any sudden movements, and I certainly don’t rush toward them. I simply exist in their space. For weeks, I do this, allowing them to become familiar with my presence. Slowly, they begin to accept me as part of their environment.
At first, they keep their distance, watching with curiosity. Then, one or two might step a little closer, testing the waters. When they finally approach, I remain completely still, letting them take the lead. Sometimes, an alpaca will gently place its nose against mine. In that moment, I close my eyes and even try to hold my breath—because the sound of human breathing can startle them.
It’s a beautiful exchange of trust. No words, no expectations—just quiet understanding. Over time, they learn that I am safe, that I respect their space, and that they can be themselves around me.
Building a bond with alpacas isn’t about forcing interaction; it’s about patience and letting them come to you on their terms. And when that trust is finally established, it’s one of the most rewarding feelings in the world.
Have you had a special moment with an alpaca? I’d love to hear about your experiences! Let’s chat in the comments. Daniela
Video: Watching ten day old cria, Van, Dam is Vinky in the background as he gets use to my presence.
The video above is of Paisley and me in the paddock. She is now 16 months old and never liked to be handled. She has come a long way and made our husbandry tasks much easier and more enjoyable. If you would like to read more about Paisley, click on the YouTube video above.
Join Us for Our Next Monthly Alpaca Workshop!
Curious about alpacas? Want to learn how to care for them and understand their unique behaviours? Our Introduction to Alpacas workshop runs monthly in the Hunter Valley and is perfect for new and potential alpaca owners.
During this hands-on session, you'll learn:
✅ How to handle and care for alpacas
✅ Body Scoring (BSC) and FAMACHA methods
✅ Feeding, health, and general husbandry
✅ Understanding their behaviuor and building trust
This is a great opportunity to get up close with these incredible animals in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Spaces are limited, so book now!
📍 Location: Little Valley Farm, Laguna, Wollombi Valley. Hunter Valley (90 mins from Sydney).
📅 When: Monthly—check our website for upcoming dates
🎟 Bookings & Info: view here
We can't wait to share our love of alpacas with you!