Like many others at this time of year, farm life is very busy! Births and matings can be time consuming, yet filled with excitement and anticipation.

Last weekend we were honoured to have Mary-Jo Smith visit Northern Ireland to tutor delegates from all over Ireland (and even England!).  I had the easy job of making sure everyone was kept fed and watered (and tried to keep them cool!), while Mary-Jo, Roger and the delegates made every minute count in the classroom!

The course was the British Alpaca Society’s ‘Introduction to Alpaca Assessment’, consisting of an overview on conformation followed by a detailed discussion about huacaya and Suri fleece traits.  This was then consolidated by the delegates assessing a series of fleece samples.

Many of the delegates are eager to complete the next stage of the series of BAS courses.  If you are interested in learning in a relaxed group environment, I would encourage you to contact BAS and reserve a place for future courses all over the UK!

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