New Arrivals: Alpacas

June 12, 2025

The zoo is humming with excitement, thanks to the arrival of the newest zoo residents: Zsa Zsa, Starlight, Sara, Maya, Grettle, and Gracie. The six alpacas (Lama pacos) can now be seen in the southernmost habitat in the South Loop, formerly known the Camel & Zebra Area.

The female alpacas range in age from 1-year-old Gracie to 24-year-old Grettle. They are members of a very gentle and social species with many types of vocalizations, including a subtle humming sound that sounds like a sheep’s “baa” made with a closed mouth. These animals, which are adapted to wintry, high-altitude conditions in the Andes Mountains, are known for their soft fleece.

Alpacas were domesticated 6,000 years ago from wild camelids called vicunas. They thrive in farmed situations. Although the species has not been evaluated by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature’s Red List, their population is thought to be at almost 4 million, with more than 250,000 alpacas in the U.S.

Keepers say these lovely ladies are very sweet, and they also are very easy to tell apart. Here’s how:

  • Starlight has the lightest face and a big, fuzzy topknot—that’s what the fleece that grows atop the head and between the ears is called.
  • Zsa Zsa has a darker head than Starlight’s but her body is lighter in color and her topknot appears spikier or straighter.
  • Maya has the darkest fleece, no real topknot, and smooth black facial features.
  • Sara is also darker in color but her fur is curlier and her topknot is large and glorious.
  • Grettle, who is also black, has a shaggier look and her topknot fleece hangs down, making her look like she has split bangs.
  • Meanwhile, young Gracie sports a reddish-brownish hue with a darker face.

Come on over and help us welcome this adorable alpaca herd to Lincoln Park Zoo!

00:00
00:00
Empty Playlist