The Northern Solstice Alpaca Farm in Unity held its 2025 Annual Alpaca Shearing Day.
This year marks the 20th year of shearing at the farm, operated by owners Corey and Robin Fowler-Pratt.
After four days of preparation, each of the 35 alpacas go through the shearing process, allowing several pounds of fleece to be sheared right off
The alpacas can rest easy during the hot summer season without risk of exhaustion, while their luxurious fiber gets to be used in hats, mittens, blankets and more.
“Each alpaca can range depending on their size, anywhere from six to ten pounds of fleece. So, this year, we’ll be harvesting pretty close to 400 pounds of fleece, which is pretty standard for us each year. They’re so happy to get off that dense, heavy fleece. It’s very, very warm, and so there’s a big sigh of relief for them getting that fiber off. We’re actually fortunate to have some of the healthiest and longest living alpaca is in the country, so it’s a real joy for us,” says Robin Fowler-Pratt.
Items made from the nearly 400 pounds of sheared fleece can be purchased at the farm’s gift shop in Unity and at the Maine Alpaca Experience in Northport.
