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It is known from archaeological records that alpacas
have been domesticated for 6,000 years.
Early depictions of Suri alpacas dating from between 5 and 20 thousand years ago can only be
found on the western slopes of the Andes mountains in Peru. The Suri appears as a distinct
breed in pre-Colonial textiles, pottery, and jewelry. The word "suri" appears to originate
from the Aymara language, and according to world-renowned alpaca expert Dr. Julio Sumar,
refers to the lustrous quality exhibited by the feathers of a South American cousin of the
Ostrich.
Suri alpacas were first brought to the United States in 1991. Importations have brought
Suri alpacas from Bolivia, Chile, and Peru, giving U.S. breeders access to genetic material
from all three countries in South America that produce Suri alpacas.
Today, breeders of North American alpacas enjoy the best bloodlines from South
America, providing an excellent livelihood and lifestyle with the beautiful
and rare Suri.
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