This South American cousin to the llama is one of the most eco-friendly animals in the world.

When I think of South America I instantly imagine the beautiful green Amazon rainforest. But I recently read an article in L.A.’s Green Right Now section that convinced me that South American has another green gift to offer.

It looks a lot like a llama and makes a humming sound that could soothe you to sleep. No, it’s not a “Lamb Chop Sings Love Songs to the Trees” CD. It’s an alpaca!

I’ll pack a what? Yes, that’s what it sounds like, but this eco-friendly animal is way cooler and greener than any lunch that you’ll ever pack. Here’s why:

• Alpacas produce some of the finest natural fibers in the world, not only providing communities with great clothes, but also giving organic farmers a steady source of income.
• They’re the perfect alternative to gas-powered or push lawnmowers (they eat grass even though they don’t have upper teeth).
• Their waste droppings make an amazing, all-natural fertilizer.
• Sometimes the fur on their wooly coat looks like dreadlocks (which happens to be a very green way to style your hair).

Alpacas have always been considered the weird cousin of the llama (because they are), but it looks like they are now getting their chance to shine in the green spotlight. After seeing how eco-friendly the animals were in Peru, Bolivia and Chile, someone thought of the grand idea to bring some to America. Now some U.S. farmers get the awesome opportunity to see alpacas in action every day!

These cuddly creatures have been providing American farmers with silky, hypoallergenic wool, rich natural fertilizer and playful companionship for the past 25 years, and I hope that they continue to work their charm around the world to prove that they are eco-friendly and proud of it!

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