Ever wanted your own alpacas? These 22 are up for adoption in Mass.
Written by b87fm on 07/20/2025
A whole herd of alpacas in Massachusetts is in need of a new home.
The 22 alpacas — 16 females and six males — range in age from 8 to 14 and were recently surrendered by their owners on Martha’s Vineyard, where they were raised as show animals and for their fleece, according to the MSPCA, which is keeping them at its Nevins Farm facility in Methuen for now.
“They realized that maybe they’re in a place in their life where they shouldn’t have 22 alpacas to take care of,” said MSPCA Equine & Farm Animal Rescue and Outreach Manager Kaycie McCarthy.
McCarthy has been caring for them over the past month and said the adoption process is already underway.
“We’re definitely looking for experienced adopters,” she said. “These guys do have kind of specific care needs.”
Native to the Andes mountains, alpacas are herd animals and highly social, which means the MSPCA would like them to be adopted in groups to ensure their well-being.
“Just making sure that they can live like a social life,” explained McCarthy. “They are social creatures, and they bond to one another, so that’s kind of our biggest thing — we want them to be able to stick together.”
King Charles got a unique greeting while down under. The 75-year-old monarch had a hilarious reaction after an alpaca dressed in his regal attire, a crown and bowtie, sneezed on him as he went to say hello.
Despite their quirks, the alpacas have charmed visitors and staff alike.
For McCarthy, the animals she cares for have taught her to appreciate humans even more.
“I really love helping people, I love helping with their animals,” she said. “I love meeting donors who want to contribute… we couldn’t help these animals without all the people who support this work.”
The MSPCA is reviewing dozens of adoption applications. McCarthy is encouraging serious candidates to do their research and visit the farm or apply online.
