Alpaca Tribe

I am delighted to report that the shearing is finished for another year. It was physically demanding but less so than in some previous years. The alpacas have just about forgiven me, but a few are still looking at me suspiciously and giving me a wider berth than usual during feeding time.Dry fleece is essential for both shearing and storing the fleece. The week of dry, sunny weather helped.Also listen in to find out what the geese and swans have been up to. Spring is well and truly here, and summer is around the corner.Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, I consider the difficulty of doing some alpaca jobs alone.There is also a valley update about the new ready-made family of geese joining the number one family.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!Beautiful spring mornings with the alpacas are a delight. Recognising that we are all connected to the life around us is an important reason to slow down, take a breath, and be present.I have learned so much from living with alpacas, and slowing down is definitely one of the best.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!We don't really know what is going on inside the head of an alpaca. What are they thinking? What do they think of us? It doesn't stop us trying to speak alpaca, though. And if you can spend time around your alpacas, you stand a better chance of connecting. When you do, it is a bit magical.Spring continues to gather pace and there are more signs of its arrival - the swallows, the cuckoo, the woodpecker and butterflies. What are you noticing where you are?Reminder: From May, the podcast frequency will change, and new episodes will arrive fortnightly rather than weekly.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!Podcast updateThe frequency of the Alpaca Tribe podcast will be changing from May 2025. It will become every two weeks rather than weekly. The alternate weeks will be filled by a new podcast called View From The Valley, which will focus on the 'other' things, leaving Alpaca Tribe to focus more on the alpacas. I would love to know what you think.Valley updateLake emptied and is back to half-full - weather doing its thing. The geese are nesting and the fox is around. The other birds are noisy. Spring is here, but the grass has not quite arrived. Recent rain will help with the catch-up.Freds is coping but being careful on the steep slopes. Desire lines and the right light levels help him negotiate the hill with his poor eyesight.Try to take advantage of any good weather you have and spend some time with your alpacas.LinksClaire Whitehead of Camelid Veterinary Services has just published a new book - The Camelid Care Handbook for Alpaca & Llama Owners: Foundations of Care (Volume 1). Comprehensive and practical - it is worth checking out.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, following on my conversation with Rita of Campo Verde Alpacas and Llamas, we turned to ageing alpacas and owners and what Rita has planned for down on the farm later in the year.Check out the Campo Verde Instagram feed for some lovely videos of Rita, the Llamas, and the Alpacas.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, Listen in as I catch up with Rita Soares in Victoria, Australia and hear about the arrival of Llamas at Campo Verde Alpacas and Llamas. More to come in the future.It is well worth checking out Rita's photos and videos on her Instagram feed - https://www.instagram.com/campoverdealpacas/I was also reminded of my episode with Kristin Llamas - (pronounced Ya-mass in Spanish - listen here). Episode with Kirstin - https://alpacatribe.com/podcast71/Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, Spring continues to arrive. Which makes you think of Spring cleaning and updating tools and equipment. How are things on the farm with you?Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, I have been musing about growth. How soon the grass starts growing is a prime factor in judging when spring has arrived. The interplay of the essentials of moisture, sun and soil temperature determines how much growth, if any, the grass makes and how soon. Ours seems to have slowed down - disappointing but nothing to do but wait.Sufficient nutrients in the soil and in what our alpacas eat determine the rate of growth.We are also entering the show season here in the UK and the National show of the British Alpaca Society is this weekend. Also available as a live stream to view online on YouTube- if you are interested.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!Confident and fulfilled owners of happy and healthy alpacas. It is why I do the podcast and I know it is a work in progress.One of the most significant things which helped me in my early days of trying to become a good alpaca shepherd, was doing Camelidynamics Training with Marty McGee Bennett. Here is a reworking of a previous interview with her.Also, she has a free 30 min introductory online webinar that is worth signing up for (but don't hang around) - it is on Saturday 15th February at 3 pm EDT. Sign up here (recording available afterwards for those that register in advance.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, you can join me as we talk Spring, field shelters and things that make you smile.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!Today was a weather day with a bit of everything. Very Spring-like. What kind of weather protection do alpacas need?In addition to field shelters, natural shelter-belt from trees and bushes are really helpful. Protection is needed from the rain/wind/sun.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!Listen in to this episode as I consider expectations. Everyone has expectations including you and your alpacas. What we do and how can affect them every time. Build your alpacas' expectations of you being a safe person. Plan your interactions to create good, and appropriate expectations for yourself. From my experience thngs cost 1/3 more than we would like them too and always take longer to complete.If you can, go spend some time with your alpacas and get into step with alpaca pace., Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!Like all of us, alpacas thrive on familarity and the expected plus variety now and again. What kind of variety could you bring to the mix for your alpacas. Listen in and let me share some thoughts.These include what they need as basics - food, water, shelter. But also stimulation and interest. They are naturally curious and delight in something new.Rita Soares of Campo Verde Alpacas in Australia used a collection of unusual objects in the alpaca field to see what they thought about them. Intersting results. Check out her Instagram feed for the answers and an idea for you to try out.Instagram reel with strange objects in the fieldThanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!Sitting with the alpacas you can zone out but still be present. A delight to spend time with them and notice what is happening in the valley.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, Changing tack when sailing allows us to take advantage of the wind. How do you know when to tack?I share some thoughts about making decisions and factors that can influence it. There is also an update on happenings in the valley. Listen in, you are most welcome.Alpaca FeedWe are now using the vitality alpaca mix from Waterhouse Feeds and are very pleased with it and at how much our alpacas seem to like it. Worth considering if you are in the UK.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, I make suggestions about using the low-ebb time of winter when the vegetation has died back, you can see the fences and the weeds and catch up on some maintenance.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, I reflect on how much of our life is outside of our control. This includes our alpacas for sure. Though there are some things that help.Lovely day in the valley, so I took the opportunity to sit outside with my alpacas. Hope you get a chance to do so too.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!And welcome to 2025. Intention is so important as we continue what we have been doing with our alpacas or plan to add in new things. Growing skills and confidence takes time and effort - and intention. Don't settle for more of the same - conserving what you have. Keep leaning into a forward trajectory as we plan and work our way through 2025.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!Happy New Year to you all. I have found my happy place to be with my alpacas. I hope it is yours too and you get a chance to spend some time with them.What will 2025 hold? More of the same? Different? How can we do better?No resolutions but a question to carry through the year. What will yours be?Peace and presence, SteveThanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!Happy holidays to one and all.The gift of keeping alpacas is amazing and lasts all year. How can we give back? What can we get better at? How do we do it? Being intentional is a great place to start. Plan to build on what you are already good at, or things you need to improve or add into your repertoire. Next year could be a great step forward if we approach it with intention.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, I went in search of Normal and found it in Illinois! Alpacas here are mostly normal but we did have a visitor who left the gate open and the alpacas free to wander off down the road. No damage done.Have a listen to my musings and if you can, go spend some time with your own alpacas watching out for normal.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!Another storm - Darragh - hit the valley and made some impact. High winds, rain and a power cut. We lost some trees to the 80 mph winds but no serious damage to house or stable.Today was very quiet and I found myself on my own and feeling on my own - the valley was quiet and empty. Most of the time it doesn't feel quite so empty. I feel connected. It was a good reminder at this time of year to reconnect and strengthen the connections we have with our friends, family and environment.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!Alpacas are mysterious creatures. We get to know them but they still surprise us with their mysterious ways. 'Why do they do that?' becomes 'Why do they sometimes do that?'. I have three questions that might help:Is it me?Is it them?Is it something in the local environment?Megan spat in my ear again. She doesn't always but sometimes I get surprised.Winter continues to settle in and make itself at home. Listen in for a valley update.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!Update post-storm and what is happening with the alpacas in the valley.If you are celebrating a holiday around this time, do enjoy and share life with those you love.Of course for the alpacas, it is just another day!Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!We knew to expect some colder weather but thought we were on the edge of the weather alert area. Maybe not.It started cold and frosty but then came some snow. Now it was not that bad really - just a surprise. The first real cold weather of the season is always like that.Keep an eye on the water - checking for ice. And think about some extra food that will give quick energy to help the alpacas stay warm. Think about your own layers too.Video clip from the archives of alpacas in the snowhttps://vimeo.com/1031697533/5958f52021This was how the alpacas greeted their first snow - a number of years ago now but still so memorable.The vertical take off is by Hermione (when she was younger.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, I sit in the sun and think alpacas, and swans, and herons and the rest.No one ready for breakfast when I first went down to feed them - no one at home. But they heard me and came ready for clearing the troughs. Cold mornings make for hungry alpacas.Birds about today on a beautiful, clear, bright, sunny, still day with low sun. Ravens have a lovely call.Watch what is going on in your place and your season. Spend some time with your alpacas if you can and breathe...Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!Feeding alpacas can be fun and sometimes challenging. Always a great opportunity to catch up with how your herd is doing and what is going on. Also, it can add to the positive experiences they have of you as a safe person to be around.Of course, sometimes there is more than you bargain for.I have been musing about what makes a good alpaca. Particularly relevant if you are thinking of adding alpacas to your life or your herd. One factor among many is how sociable they are. Will they get on with the others you will be introducing them to? Are they going to be easy to manage? Often you can't be sure until later and see how they grow. We gather the information we can. Ask the relevant questions and make the best decision we can.What would you look for in an alpaca? Let me know by dropping me a line.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, I share my delight on a dry, still autumn day. The colours, the sounds and the alpacas enjoying their pastures.Things to notice as always. Keep notes of the changes. Watch the body condition, particularly of older or weaker alpacas and boost the rations to keep them healthy.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In the calm between storms, my thoughts turn to tools and fences. Maintaining them during the downtime of fall and winter is a great way to invest in the future of your alpaca farm.This time of year has some lovely moments, so take advantage when you can, to get outside and spend time with your alpacas. A cup of your favourite beverage and something to sit on. Perfect.The girls love standing in the water. It is a bit of a spar moment for them. Here is Betsi 'cooling her heels'. Happy girls.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!We want to be confident, fulfilled owners of happy and healthy alpacas. The moving target of what is involved in achieving that continues to entice us to do better.Good food. Keeping them healthy. And spending time with them. Steps along the way.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!Things stay the same until they don't. Unexpectedly we had to make new arrangements for feed supplies. Moving in the right direction now and we will settle into a new routine I am sure. In the meantime, it is an opportunity to review everything and make sure we are doing the best to care for our alpacas.This is especially important as the autumn weather establishes itself. Time to make sure your alpaca socks are handy!Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!As we celebrate 300 episodes of The Alpaca Tribe Podcast, I have been reflecting back on what I have enjoyed and what you have listened to most. How we started and an invitation to breakfast with the girls seem to have been popular so I wanted to share some clips with you (again if you are a regular).Thank you for being on the journey with me and for the encouragement you have shared over the 300 episodes. Always happy to hear from you - it makes a big difference and keeps me going.If you can, go spend some time with some alpacas or even better have breakfast with them.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!People love to ask questions about alpacas. They are unusual animals and many people have not spent much time with them. In today's episode, I run through these typical questions and offer some perspectives and answers that might satisfy that curiosity.If you have any other questions, please email me and we can include them in a future episode.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!Alpacas have a pace all of their own. And if we choose to, we can let them teach us to find a slower rhythm that could just suit us better. I love it when alpaca life spills over into the rest of life.What do you notice about your alpacas? What about friends, family and colleagues? What about you?Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, I share some of my alpaca obsessions. Where are they and what are they doing?We learn by making mistakes - hopefully small and not disastrous ones. It starts that way when we first start keeping alpacas and it continues. The specifics change as we get more experience and more adventurous!Keep learning and if you can go spend some time with some alpacas.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!You can enjoy being with alpacas whatever the weather. They seem to cope with it all but it does change their behaviour, which is true of us too. Here in the UK particularly, we seem to be obsessed with the weather.The wind can put an extra spring in an alpacas step. If you can go spend some time with your alpacas in windy weather and notice what is going on with them.Whatever the weather - enjoy the alternative perspective alpacas bring to our worlds.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, everyone maybe talking AI - but not everyone is talking Alpaca IntelligenceJoin me as I consider the intelligence shown by these amazing creatures. I also got caught out in the rain and had to shelter while giving breakfast to the girls. Preparation and spontaneity. Why not have a half-hour holiday with your alpacas? But take something to sit on, the ground is wet from that latest shower.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!Sometimes we can feel lost even when we are not and other times, we really are lost and need help.Being lost means there is a piece of information missing. Either we don't know where we are; we don't know where to go; or we don't know how to get where we are going. Strategies to move forward include waiting for more data, starting to make a move in the best direction we can discern and hope for landmarks, ask for directions. Which is the right thing to do? It all depends.Check out the episode notes for the video of finding Ninian the lost cria - more misplaced really.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, we consider how alpacas like being with other alpacas and ask the question - how many make a herd?Alpacas love to be able to see other alpacas. They have a strong herd instinct and to help them thrive we need to understand this and accommodate it as much as we can.How many make a herd? One alpaca on its own is not a herd. But that doesn't mean two is either. I recommend a minimum of at least three or more when possible. The capacity of your land for a herd of alpacas is an interplay of space, grazing, shelter and type of land. Don't run to the maximum but leave yourself some headroom.Have you noticed they often face the same direction when grazing - why is that? Answers on a digital-postcard.Spend time with your alpacas and keep your eyes open.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, I consider the colours of alpacas and what my favourite is. And no, it is not blue!Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, listen in for a valley update - the alpacas, the birds, the warmth and the water levels.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, Alpacas are predictable until they are not. The same can be said of the weather.Join me for some musings and a valley update.What is predictable?Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!Alpacas are semi-ruminant. That means they have multiple stomach compartments (three) and chew the cud. This kind of digestion is similar to cows and sheep which are the ruminants most people know about. These are not separate stomachs but compartments. This seems amazingly simple to my alpacas but I can't easily get my head around how it all works the way it should.Definitely worth spending time with your alpacas watching this part of an important process we may be overlooking.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!Building cooperation comes by building trust. Being trustworthy to your alpacas is a worthwhile investment even if it takes time and effort.Start with the simple and take small steps and you can grow your alpacas' confidence in you - and also your own confidence in you. A clear win-win.Leading is different to managing. I vote for leading - listen in to find out why.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, we are thinking about how ordinary and extraordinary days can both start looking the same. But keep your eyes open, you never know when the extraordinary is going to show up and surprise and delight.Frequently around cria birthing time, I have found this to be true. Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) LtdThis podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, the air was still and the valley was quiet. The alpacas were waiting for breakfast. What a great start to the day.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) Ltd

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, I finish the update on this year's shearing and happenings in the valley. It is always nice to clean up and pack away the shearing equipment for another year. It went well, we had a good crop of fleece and almost all of the herd were in good shape. Satisfying.Of course, another round of feeding and weather-watching follows straight after, but at least the heavy work is done for now.Time to take a breath and smile - while spending some time with the alpacas.Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) Ltd

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, we revisit episode one when it all began. Unexpected commitments have kept me from my microphone this week but should be back to normal next. This is where we began. Hope you enjoy. SteveThanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) Ltd

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, The weather shifted in the right direction, allowing us to start the shearing. A good crop of fleece - better than last year and the girls all seem to be in good shape, which is nice to see.Keeping records is a good idea - keep it simple and make it easy. I use this app on my phone to dictate notes or capture photos and website links etc. If I could only have one app on my phone it would be this one. https://bear.app/Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) Ltd

Welcome to the podcast for alpaca people!In this episode, walking with alpacas is a delight. Watch them move. Note the footfalls and the fluid motion. Watch them from many angles. It is a great reason to go spend time with your alpacas.We had some visitors to come talk alpaca fibre and fashion and regeneration. Lovely.Check out their wider work here https://www.fashionactnow.org/projectshttps://www.istitutomarangoni.com/enThanks for listening and I hope you enjoyed it.If you would like to be in touch, please contact me by email - steve@alpacatribe.com - or leave me a voicemail from your browser.Alpaca Tribe is hosted and produced by Steve Heatherington of Good Podcasting Works, which is part of The Waterside (Swansea) Ltd