Shearing the Boys

This morning the alpaca males crowded into our little two-horse trailer for their 2010 adventure in shearing. The ride was uneventful, although they were certainly glad to be loosed into the lush pasture at Long Hollow Suri Alpacas. Even better than the abundant green grass, they quickly discovered the resident female alpacas. Or, should I say that the gals discovered them? At various points throughout the morning, the boys could be found taking a break from their grazing to actively ogle the girls.

In the shearing barn the work again progressed quickly and efficiently. Most of the boys behaved, but MacGregor came in spitting and swearing and had to wear a spit cloth over his face for the duration of his shearing. Of course, he seemed to understand the purpose of the cloth and stopped spitting immediately. (After spitting, the alpacas may stand around with their mouths open for several minutes, airing out the foul stench.)

At day's end, the boys enjoyed the same cool comfort for which they had envied the girls only yesterday.