Sheep and Alpaca Productivity on High Andean Rangelands in Peru

Abstract

Sheep and alpaca production traits from the Andes of Peru show that peasant communities, which have the lowest level of technological input, also have the lowest productivity of sheep and alpaca. Comparative data from research trials conducted in Peru emphasize the need for rangeland stocking rates to be reduced in line with ecological realities. Range improvement strategies such as rotational grazing and integration of cultivated pastures to supplement forage from native rangelands can increase output of sheep, meat and wool. Likewise, alpaca wool production can be increased through technological input, but increasing productivity of alpaca offspring will require further research effort. (